An Assessment of Nurses' Awareness and Management of Diabetic Foot Ulcers in Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital, Bauchi
- Project Research
- 1-5 Chapters
- Abstract : Available
- Table of Content: Available
- Reference Style:
- Recommended for :
- NGN 5000
Background of the Study
Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are one of the most serious complications of diabetes mellitus, often leading to lower limb amputations and increased morbidity and mortality rates (World Health Organization [WHO], 2023). Globally, DFUs affect 15–25% of diabetic patients during their lifetime, and inadequate management often results in prolonged hospital stays and reduced quality of life (Adeyemi & Musa, 2024). Proper awareness and management of DFUs by nurses are crucial in preventing severe complications and improving patient outcomes (Eze et al., 2023).
In Nigeria, diabetes prevalence has been rising due to lifestyle changes, urbanization, and an increasing aging population. Unfortunately, the burden of diabetic foot ulcers is also escalating, with many cases attributed to late diagnosis and poor wound management (Okonkwo & Adegbite, 2024). Nurses play a key role in DFU prevention, early detection, and management, making their level of awareness and competency in treatment strategies essential (Bello & Yusuf, 2024).
Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH), Bauchi, serves as a referral center for diabetes-related complications, including DFUs. However, there is limited research on the awareness and management practices of nurses handling these cases. Assessing their knowledge, adherence to treatment protocols, and challenges in DFU care will provide valuable insights into improving nursing interventions and patient outcomes.
Statement of the Problem
Diabetic foot ulcers are a major cause of hospitalization among diabetic patients in Nigeria, yet poor awareness and suboptimal management by healthcare professionals continue to contribute to high morbidity rates (Musa et al., 2023). Studies suggest that many nurses lack adequate training in DFU assessment, wound care, and evidence-based interventions (Chukwu & Bello, 2024). This gap in knowledge and practice can lead to delayed wound healing, infections, and unnecessary amputations (Okoro & Adebayo, 2024).
At ATBUTH, Bauchi, nurses are frequently involved in diabetes management, but their awareness of DFU risk factors, prevention strategies, and treatment guidelines remains unclear. Without proper knowledge and skills, nurses may struggle to provide effective care, leading to poor patient outcomes. This study aims to assess nurses' awareness and management practices regarding diabetic foot ulcers, identifying areas that require improvement to enhance patient care.
Objectives of the Study
- To assess nurses' awareness of diabetic foot ulcers and their risk factors.
- To evaluate nurses' management practices for diabetic foot ulcers in ATBUTH, Bauchi.
- To identify challenges affecting the effective management of diabetic foot ulcers.
Research Questions
- What is the level of nurses' awareness of diabetic foot ulcers and their risk factors?
- How do nurses manage diabetic foot ulcers in ATBUTH, Bauchi?
- What challenges do nurses face in the management of diabetic foot ulcers?
Research Hypotheses
- Nurses have adequate awareness of diabetic foot ulcers and their risk factors.
- Nurses' management practices significantly impact the healing outcomes of diabetic foot ulcers.
- Addressing challenges in diabetic foot ulcer management will improve patient outcomes.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study focuses on nurses at ATBUTH, Bauchi, assessing their awareness and management of diabetic foot ulcers. Limitations include differences in training backgrounds, variations in patient cases, and self-reported data, which may introduce bias.
Definitions of Terms
- Diabetic Foot Ulcer (DFU): A chronic wound that develops in diabetic patients due to poor circulation and nerve damage.
- Awareness: The level of knowledge and understanding that nurses have about diabetic foot ulcers.
- Management Practices: The clinical approaches used by nurses in treating and preventing diabetic foot ulcers.
- Wound Care: The medical procedures involved in cleaning, dressing, and monitoring diabetic foot ulcers to promote healing.
Related Project Materials
An appraisal of product launch events on brand awareness: A study of a lifestyle brand in Abuja.
Background of the study
Product launch events have long been a cornerstone in building brand awareness, particularly...
An Appraisal of the Effectiveness of Nurse-Led First Aid Training Programs at University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital
Background of the Study
First aid plays a critical role in providing immediate care to individuals with injuries or health emergencies, r...
The Role of Government Accounting in the Implementation of Anti-Corruption Policies in Nigeria: A Case Study of ICPC
Background of the Study
Corruption in Nigeria has been a longstanding issue that impedes the country’s development, e...
An appraisal of the role of faith-based organizations in rural community development in Umuahia South Local Government Area, Abia State, Nigeria
Background of the Study
Faith-based organizations (FBOs) have historically played a significant role in rural community de...
A CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF TAX SECTOR REFORMS IN NIGERIA FROM 1978-2012
ABSTRACT
Taxation remains a veritable instrument for national development. Apart from being a major source of revenue for the government,...
The effect of teacher-led innovations in STEM instruction in Maigatari LGA, Jigawa State
Background of the Study
Teacher-led innovations in STEM instruction are increasingly being recognized as crucial drivers o...
An Evaluation of Nurses’ Knowledge on Pressure Ulcer Prevention Among the Elderly in Kano State
Background of the Study
Pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores, are a significant con...
EVOLUTION AND RESEARCH TRENDS OF CONTAINER SHIPPING
ABSTRACT
The shipping industry was transformed by the expansion of international trade and technologica...
An appraisal of sustainable fishing practices in Brass Local Government Area, Bayelsa State
Background of the study:
Sustainable fishing practices are vital for preserving aquatic ecosystems and supporting the livelihoods of comm...
THE EFFECT OF HOSPITALITY AND TOURISM INDUSTRY ON EMPLOYMENT RATE
Abstract
The study aimed at assessing the effect of hospitality and tourism industry on employment rate. The population...
