Background of the Study
Palliative care is a specialized medical approach aimed at improving the quality of life for patients facing life-threatening illnesses through symptom management, psychosocial support, and holistic care (World Health Organization [WHO], 2024). With the increasing burden of chronic and terminal diseases such as cancer, HIV/AIDS, and organ failure, the demand for palliative care services has grown significantly. Nurses play a vital role in providing end-of-life care, ensuring pain relief, and offering emotional and spiritual support to patients and their families.
Despite the importance of palliative care, research suggests that many nurses lack adequate knowledge and training in this area, leading to poor patient outcomes (Okonkwo & Eze, 2023). Studies conducted in Nigeria have revealed gaps in nurses’ understanding of palliative care principles, particularly in symptom management, communication strategies, and ethical considerations (Adeyemi et al., 2024). This study investigates the level of knowledge and awareness of palliative care among nurses at Benue State University Teaching Hospital.
Statement of the Problem
The absence of well-structured palliative care education in nursing curricula and limited hands-on training opportunities have contributed to a deficiency in nurses’ knowledge and competency in palliative care (Obi & Hassan, 2023). In Benue State University Teaching Hospital, where patients with terminal conditions frequently require palliative care, the extent of nurses’ preparedness remains unclear. This knowledge gap may lead to inadequate symptom control, poor patient-centered care, and increased distress among patients and families.
This study aims to evaluate nurses' awareness and knowledge of palliative care, examining their level of preparedness in handling terminally ill patients effectively.
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Research Hypotheses
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on nurses working in medical, surgical, oncology, and intensive care units at Benue State University Teaching Hospital. Limitations may include variations in nurses’ exposure to palliative care cases and potential biases in self-reported knowledge.
Definitions of Terms
ABSTRACT
The study investigated the Effects of Computer Simulation on Academic Achievement and Retention in Geography Among Secondary Sch...
Background of the Study
Regional identity plays a crucial role in shaping consumer preferences, particula...
Background of the Study
Mobile technology has revolutionized the way corporate banking services are delivered, offering unp...
ABSTRACT: This research explores the benefits of early childhood education in fostering clean air initiatives among young children. Teaching c...
Background of the Study
In today’s increasingly digital financial landscape, fraud risks have grown both in complexit...
Background of study
Gender and inequality have a complicated relationship. Gender norms throughout soci...
Background of the Study
Logistics outsourcing has become a widely adopted strategy in modern business operations, particularly in sectors...
Background of the Study
The role of tax incentives in shaping business decisions, particularly in the m...
Background of the Study
Bilingual discourse is increasingly common in professional environments, where individuals must na...
Background of the Study
Vocational education plays a crucial role in shaping students’ career aspirations, especiall...