Background of the Study
Mass casualty incidents (MCIs), such as natural disasters, industrial accidents, and terrorist attacks, result in a sudden influx of patients requiring immediate medical attention. The effectiveness of the healthcare response during MCIs heavily depends on the preparedness of medical personnel, particularly nurses, who play a pivotal role in triage, emergency care, and coordination.
In Nigeria, the frequency of MCIs has highlighted the need for robust disaster preparedness among healthcare providers. A study assessing disaster preparedness among nurses in a tertiary health institution in North West Nigeria revealed that nurses' knowledge of disaster management was poor, and their level of preparedness was low, despite a positive attitude towards disaster response.
At the State Specialist Hospital in Kano, the preparedness of nurses for MCIs has not been thoroughly evaluated. Understanding their readiness is crucial for developing targeted training programs and ensuring an effective response during such incidents.
Statement of the Problem
The increasing occurrence of MCIs in Nigeria poses significant challenges to healthcare facilities. Nurses at the State Specialist Hospital, Kano, may face difficulties in effectively managing these situations due to potential gaps in preparedness. A lack of adequate training, resources, and institutional support can hinder their ability to respond efficiently, potentially leading to increased morbidity and mortality during MCIs.
Assessing the current level of preparedness among nurses is essential to identify deficiencies and implement strategies to enhance their readiness for future incidents.
Objectives of the Study
1. To evaluate the current level of preparedness among nurses at the State Specialist Hospital, Kano, for mass casualty incidents.
2. To assess nurses' knowledge and attitudes towards disaster management and response.
3. To identify barriers that impede effective preparedness and response to MCIs among nursing staff.
Research Questions
1. What is the current level of preparedness among nurses at the State Specialist Hospital, Kano, for mass casualty incidents?
2. How knowledgeable are the nurses regarding disaster management protocols and procedures?
3. What factors hinder effective preparedness and response to MCIs among the nursing staff?
Research Hypotheses
1. H₀: Nurses at the State Specialist Hospital, Kano, are not adequately prepared for mass casualty incidents.
2. H₀: There is a significant deficiency in knowledge and attitudes towards disaster management among the nurses.
3. H₀: Various barriers significantly impede effective preparedness and response to MCIs among the nursing staff.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study focuses on nurses employed at the State Specialist Hospital, Kano, assessing their preparedness for mass casualty incidents, including their knowledge, attitudes, and perceived barriers. The study does not encompass other healthcare professionals or facilities. Limitations may include reliance on self-reported data, which could introduce bias, and the potential for variability in preparedness levels across different departments within the hospital.
Definition of Terms
• Mass Casualty Incident (MCI): An event resulting in a large number of casualties that overwhelms the available medical resources.
• Preparedness: The state of being ready and able to respond effectively to emergency situations, including having the necessary knowledge, skills, and resources.
• Disaster Management: The organization and management of resources and responsibilities for dealing with all aspects of emergencies, particularly preparedness, response, and rehabilitation.
Background of the Study
The process of secondary school admissions is often complicated due to the many variables that must...
Background of the Study
Employee turnover is a pressing issue that affects the healthcare sector globally, and hospitals in...
Background of the Study :
Sports training is recognized not only for enhancing physical abilities but also for developing critical interp...
Background of the Study:
Adolescence is a critical period for the development of hygiene behaviors that influence lifelo...
Background of the Study: Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is an essential treatment for patients with end-stage rena...
Background of the study
Omni-channel retailing, which seamlessly integrates online and offlin...
ABSTRACT: The benefits of early childhood education in mental health awareness were investigated to understand how early educational intervent...
Background of the Study
In today's highly competitive business environment, companies must continually seek ways to improve their mar...
Background of the Study
In an increasingly globalized world, the understanding of human rights has become a fundamental component of mode...
Background of the Study
Public health campaigns are essential for disseminating critical health information to the public,...