Background of the Study
Alcohol and substance abuse disorders in adolescents have become a growing public health issue globally, with serious long-term consequences for physical and mental health. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that adolescent substance abuse is associated with a range of problems, including academic failure, risky behaviors, mental health disorders, and increased vulnerability to chronic diseases later in life (WHO, 2024). Early detection, intervention, and treatment are critical for preventing the long-term negative effects of alcohol and substance abuse in young individuals. Nurses, especially those working in pediatric and adolescent health settings, play a significant role in identifying, educating, and providing care for adolescents affected by substance abuse.
Cross River State Teaching Hospital (CRSTH) is a prominent healthcare institution in southeastern Nigeria, offering a broad range of medical services, including pediatric and adolescent care. Given the increasing rates of substance abuse among Nigerian adolescents, it is essential to assess the knowledge of nurses at CRSTH regarding alcohol and substance abuse disorders in this age group. Understanding the extent of nurses' knowledge can help identify educational gaps and guide interventions aimed at improving care for adolescents with substance abuse issues. This study seeks to explore the knowledge of nurses at CRSTH concerning alcohol and substance abuse disorders in adolescents, with a focus on how well-equipped they are to recognize, manage, and intervene in these cases.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the high prevalence of alcohol and substance abuse among adolescents, there is limited research on the knowledge and preparedness of nurses to address these issues. At CRSTH, nurses may lack sufficient training or awareness to effectively manage adolescents with substance abuse disorders. Inadequate knowledge can hinder timely intervention and lead to poor treatment outcomes for affected adolescents. This study aims to examine the knowledge of nurses at CRSTH about alcohol and substance abuse disorders in adolescents and identify ways to improve their ability to respond to these cases.
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Research Hypotheses
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study will focus on nurses working in the pediatric, adolescent health, and emergency care units at CRSTH, as they are the primary healthcare providers for adolescents with substance abuse issues. The study will not include nurses from other departments such as surgery or obstetrics.
A limitation of the study is the potential for bias in self-reported data, particularly regarding knowledge and training. Additionally, the study's findings may not be generalizable to other hospitals with different resources or patient populations.
Definitions of Terms
ABSTRACT
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Chapter One: Introduction
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