Background of the Study
Nurse-patient ratios are a critical determinant of healthcare service delivery, influencing the quality of care, patient outcomes, and the overall functioning of healthcare facilities. Research indicates that optimal nurse-patient ratios improve the efficiency of care, enhance patient satisfaction, and reduce the incidence of errors in clinical settings (Bello et al., 2024). A high nurse-patient ratio can lead to burnout, poor patient monitoring, and increased chances of medical errors, while a low nurse-patient ratio may result in more focused, individualized care (Adebayo & Musa, 2024).
In Nigeria, the nurse-patient ratio remains a significant issue, particularly in government-owned hospitals, where there is often a shortage of healthcare professionals relative to the number of patients. At Federal Medical Centre, Katsina, the nurse-patient ratio is a key concern, with potential effects on healthcare delivery. Despite ongoing efforts to improve staffing levels, the hospital continues to experience challenges related to nurse availability, patient overload, and strained resources, which may negatively affect patient outcomes.
This study explores the impact of nurse-patient ratios on healthcare service delivery, aiming to understand how staffing levels influence the quality of care, efficiency, and patient satisfaction at Federal Medical Centre, Katsina.
Statement of the Problem
The healthcare system in Nigeria is currently grappling with inadequate staffing in public hospitals, especially in rural areas like Katsina. Nurse-patient ratios in these settings often exceed internationally recommended standards, leading to potential compromises in care quality (Aliyu & Salisu, 2023). The Federal Medical Centre, Katsina, has faced challenges in providing quality service due to a high patient load relative to the available nursing staff. This study seeks to examine how these staffing issues affect healthcare delivery and the experiences of both nurses and patients.
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Research Hypotheses
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on the nurse-patient ratios and their effect on healthcare service delivery at Federal Medical Centre, Katsina. Limitations may include variations in staffing levels across different departments and the potential bias of self-reported data from nurses and patients.
Definitions of Terms
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