An Examination of Nurses' Awareness and Management of Osteoporosis in Elderly Patients at Ondo State University Teaching Hospital
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Background of the Study
Osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weakened bones and increased risk of fractures, is a significant health concern for elderly populations worldwide, including in Nigeria. The World Health Organization (2024) has noted that osteoporosis is a leading cause of disability among the elderly, with fractures often resulting in severe complications, long-term pain, and diminished quality of life. As life expectancy rises in many parts of the world, including Nigeria, the incidence of osteoporosis and related fractures is expected to increase. The management of osteoporosis involves a combination of lifestyle interventions, pharmacologic treatments, and prevention strategies to reduce the risk of fractures. Nurses play a pivotal role in the early detection, management, and prevention of osteoporosis through patient education, monitoring, and coordination of care (Adebola et al., 2023).
At Ondo State University Teaching Hospital, the prevalence of osteoporosis in elderly patients has become a growing concern, particularly among those with comorbidities such as hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. While osteoporotic fractures are common among the elderly, there is a lack of sufficient awareness and understanding of the condition among many healthcare workers, especially nurses. Nurses are essential in educating patients about osteoporosis prevention, including the importance of calcium and vitamin D intake, physical activity, and fall prevention, yet their knowledge about osteoporosis may be limited (Olaleye et al., 2023). The absence of structured training or continuous professional development programs on bone health in many Nigerian hospitals may further exacerbate the knowledge gaps in this area.
Research has suggested that inadequate awareness and management of osteoporosis among nurses can lead to suboptimal care, resulting in missed opportunities for early diagnosis, delayed treatment, and increased fracture risk in elderly patients (Ogunbode et al., 2024). Nurses' lack of awareness about osteoporosis management protocols can also contribute to insufficient patient education and support, leading to poor adherence to treatment regimens and preventive measures. Therefore, it is essential to examine the level of awareness among nurses at Ondo State University Teaching Hospital regarding osteoporosis and assess how their knowledge influences the management and care of elderly patients with the condition.
Statement of the Problem
Osteoporosis is a serious health issue for elderly patients, and nurses play a critical role in preventing and managing this condition. However, there are concerns that many nurses at Ondo State University Teaching Hospital may not possess adequate knowledge about osteoporosis, leading to ineffective patient care. The lack of sufficient training and education on osteoporosis in many Nigerian healthcare settings raises questions about the adequacy of care provided to elderly patients suffering from this condition. Inadequate management can result in severe consequences, including fractures, disabilities, and even death, further stressing the need for effective osteoporosis management strategies. This study aims to examine the level of awareness and the effectiveness of osteoporosis management by nurses at Ondo State University Teaching Hospital, identifying potential gaps in knowledge and the barriers preventing optimal care for elderly patients.
Objectives of the Study
- To evaluate the level of awareness of osteoporosis among nurses at Ondo State University Teaching Hospital.
- To assess the impact of nurses’ awareness of osteoporosis on the management and care of elderly patients.
- To explore the barriers and challenges nurses face in managing osteoporosis in elderly patients at the hospital.
Research Questions
- What is the level of awareness of osteoporosis among nurses at Ondo State University Teaching Hospital?
- How does nurses’ awareness of osteoporosis influence the management and care of elderly patients with the condition?
- What are the challenges faced by nurses in managing osteoporosis in elderly patients at Ondo State University Teaching Hospital?
Research Hypotheses
- There is a significant relationship between nurses' awareness of osteoporosis and the effectiveness of care provided to elderly patients at Ondo State University Teaching Hospital.
- Nurses with higher awareness of osteoporosis are more likely to provide better management for elderly patients than those with limited awareness.
- The barriers to effective osteoporosis management by nurses at Ondo State University Teaching Hospital are significantly related to insufficient training and resources.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on nurses working in various departments of Ondo State University Teaching Hospital who are involved in the care of elderly patients. It will assess their level of awareness regarding osteoporosis, the management strategies they employ, and the challenges they face. The study will be limited to nurses within this specific hospital and will not assess the knowledge or management practices of other healthcare providers like physicians or physiotherapists.
The study’s limitations include the potential for biases in self-reported data and the inability to generalize the findings to other healthcare institutions or regions. Additionally, the study will focus solely on the awareness and management of osteoporosis and may not address the broader spectrum of geriatric care.
Definitions of Terms
- Osteoporosis: A medical condition characterized by the thinning and weakening of bones, making them fragile and more susceptible to fractures.
- Nurses' awareness: The level of knowledge and understanding that nurses have regarding osteoporosis, its causes, prevention, and treatment.
- Elderly patients: Individuals aged 60 years and above who are at greater risk of developing osteoporosis due to age-related changes in bone density.
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