Background of the Study
Burn injuries represent one of the most severe forms of trauma and are a significant health challenge globally, particularly in resource-limited settings. They can result from thermal, chemical, electrical, or radiation causes and can range from minor to life-threatening injuries. According to the World Health Organization (WHO, 2023), burns are responsible for hundreds of thousands of deaths annually, and survivors often face long-term physical, emotional, and social challenges.
In the management of burn injuries, timely and appropriate interventions are crucial to minimize the risk of complications, such as infection, scarring, and organ failure. Nurses play a pivotal role in the initial assessment, wound care, pain management, and emotional support for burn victims. Their knowledge of burn injury management, as well as their ability to implement evidence-based interventions, directly influences patient outcomes (Javid et al., 2023).
At the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owerri, burn injuries are a common occurrence, with many patients presenting with second and third-degree burns. Despite the prevalence of these injuries, there is limited research on the specific knowledge and practices of nurses in managing burn injuries in this hospital. While some studies have assessed burn management knowledge among healthcare providers globally, few have focused on Nigerian hospitals, where unique challenges such as resource constraints, cultural factors, and varying levels of training may affect care (Ibrahim et al., 2024).
In order to enhance the quality of burn care in FMC Owerri and similar healthcare settings, it is important to evaluate the current knowledge and practices of nurses, identify areas for improvement, and design targeted educational interventions. Understanding the gaps in knowledge and the challenges nurses face in burn management will enable the development of strategies to improve patient care and outcomes.
Statement of the Problem
Burn injuries are a significant cause of morbidity in FMC Owerri, yet there is limited research on nurses' knowledge and practices regarding the management of burn injuries. Many healthcare institutions, especially in low-resource settings, struggle with inadequate burn care training and a lack of essential equipment for optimal treatment. This situation is compounded by varying levels of awareness among nurses, which can lead to delays in treatment and complications such as infections or prolonged recovery periods. A study by Akinsanya et al. (2024) suggests that the lack of consistent education on burn management among nurses is a major barrier to effective care. Without understanding the specific gaps in knowledge and the effectiveness of current practices, it is challenging to develop effective training programs and protocols to improve burn injury management.
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Research Hypotheses
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on registered nurses involved in the care of burn patients at Federal Medical Centre, Owerri. It will assess their knowledge, management practices, and challenges in burn injury care. Limitations include potential biases in self-reported data and the exclusion of other healthcare providers, such as doctors and physiotherapists, who may also contribute to burn management.
Definitions of Terms
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