Background of the Study
Depression is one of the most prevalent mental health disorders, affecting millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by persistent sadness, loss of interest in daily activities, and impaired cognitive and physical functioning (World Health Organization [WHO], 2024). If left untreated, depression can lead to severe disability, increased risk of suicide, and a significant burden on healthcare systems. In Nigeria, the stigma surrounding mental health conditions often prevents individuals from seeking appropriate care, thereby exacerbating the problem (Afolabi & Musa, 2023).
Psychiatric nurses play a crucial role in the management of depression, providing patient-centered care that includes psychological support, medication administration, crisis intervention, and education on coping strategies (Eze & Bello, 2024). They act as a bridge between patients, psychiatrists, and families, ensuring holistic treatment approaches that address both the medical and psychosocial aspects of depression.
At Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH), Zaria, psychiatric nurses are actively involved in the assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation of patients with depression. However, their exact contributions and effectiveness in depression management remain understudied. Understanding their role is essential for improving mental healthcare services and ensuring better outcomes for patients suffering from depression (Ogunyemi et al., 2023).
Statement of the Problem
Despite the increasing recognition of mental health disorders in Nigeria, depression remains underdiagnosed and undertreated due to factors such as stigma, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, and lack of trained personnel (WHO, 2024). Psychiatric nurses, who are essential in mental healthcare delivery, often face challenges such as heavy workloads, limited resources, and insufficient professional recognition (Musa & Ibrahim, 2023).
At ABUTH Zaria, psychiatric nurses are expected to provide comprehensive care to patients with depression, yet their role is not well defined or appreciated within the healthcare system. The lack of empirical studies assessing the effectiveness of their contributions in managing depression raises concerns about whether their full potential is being utilized (Okafor & Usman, 2023).
This study seeks to evaluate the role of psychiatric nurses in the management of depression at ABUTH Zaria, identifying their impact on patient outcomes and proposing strategies for enhancing their effectiveness.
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the role of psychiatric nurses in the management of depression at ABUTH Zaria.
2. To evaluate the effectiveness of psychiatric nursing interventions in improving patient outcomes.
3. To identify challenges faced by psychiatric nurses in managing depression and suggest possible solutions.
Research Questions
1. What is the role of psychiatric nurses in the management of depression at ABUTH Zaria?
2. How effective are psychiatric nursing interventions in improving depression outcomes?
3. What are the challenges faced by psychiatric nurses in managing depression, and how can they be addressed?
Research Hypotheses
1. Psychiatric nurses play a significant role in the effective management of depression.
2. Patients receiving care from psychiatric nurses demonstrate better treatment outcomes compared to those who do not.
3. Lack of institutional support and training hinders psychiatric nurses from effectively managing depression.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on psychiatric nurses at ABUTH Zaria, assessing their contributions to depression management. It will not include other mental health professionals such as psychiatrists or psychologists. Limitations may include variations in patient responses to treatment and nurses’ individual competencies.
Definitions of Terms
• Depression: A mental health disorder characterized by persistent sadness, loss of interest, and impaired functioning.
• Psychiatric Nurses: Nurses specialized in mental health care, providing support, medication management, and counseling for patients with mental illnesses.
• Crisis Intervention: Immediate and short-term support provided to individuals experiencing severe emotional distress.
• Patient Outcomes: Measurable improvements in a patient’s mental health and overall well-being following treatment.
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