Background of the Study
Childhood diseases remain a significant public health concern globally, particularly in low- and middle-income countries like Nigeria. Early detection of childhood illnesses such as pneumonia, malaria, diarrhea, and malnutrition is critical for improving child health outcomes and reducing morbidity and mortality rates (World Health Organization [WHO], 2024). Nurses, as frontline healthcare providers, play a pivotal role in identifying early signs of childhood diseases through routine screenings, immunization programs, and health education. Studies indicate that when nurses are actively engaged in early disease detection, child survival rates improve due to timely interventions and proper management (Adeyemi et al., 2023).
Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Gombe, is a referral hospital that caters to a large number of pediatric patients, many of whom present with preventable and treatable conditions in advanced stages. This delay in seeking medical attention often results in severe complications or fatalities. Research suggests that limited parental awareness, inadequate screening practices, and poor healthcare-seeking behavior contribute to late disease detection in children (Olawale & Yusuf, 2024). Strengthening the role of nurses in the early detection of childhood diseases can significantly reduce preventable deaths and improve overall child health outcomes.
Despite the critical role nurses play in pediatric healthcare, there is a paucity of studies assessing their effectiveness in early disease detection at FMC, Gombe. This study aims to appraise the role of nurses in identifying childhood diseases early and examine the factors that may enhance or hinder their efforts in clinical practice.
Statement of the Problem
Childhood diseases such as pneumonia, malaria, and diarrhea remain leading causes of under-five mortality in Nigeria, despite being largely preventable and treatable. At FMC, Gombe, a significant number of pediatric cases are diagnosed at advanced stages, reducing the chances of successful treatment and recovery. Nurses, who interact closely with children during routine check-ups, immunization, and outpatient visits, have the potential to detect these diseases early. However, challenges such as high patient loads, inadequate training in pediatric disease recognition, and lack of standardized screening protocols may limit their effectiveness. There is a need to assess how well nurses contribute to early disease detection and identify strategies to strengthen their role in child healthcare.
Objectives of the Study
1. To evaluate the role of nurses in the early detection of childhood diseases at FMC, Gombe.
2. To identify the challenges nurses face in detecting childhood diseases early.
3. To assess strategies that can enhance nurses' capacity for early disease detection in pediatric patients.
Research Questions
1. What is the role of nurses in the early detection of childhood diseases at FMC, Gombe?
2. What challenges do nurses face in detecting childhood diseases at an early stage?
3. What strategies can be implemented to improve nurses’ effectiveness in early disease detection?
Research Hypotheses
1. Nurses play a significant role in the early detection of childhood diseases at FMC, Gombe.
2. Challenges such as inadequate training and high patient loads hinder the effectiveness of early disease detection by nurses.
3. Implementing targeted training and standardized screening protocols will improve nurses’ ability to detect childhood diseases early.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on nurses working in pediatric units at FMC, Gombe, assessing their role in early disease detection. Data will be collected through surveys, interviews, and medical record reviews. Limitations may include variations in nurses' levels of experience and challenges in measuring early detection outcomes.
Definitions of Terms
• Early detection: The identification of signs and symptoms of diseases at an initial stage before complications arise.
• Childhood diseases: Common health conditions affecting children, such as pneumonia, malaria, diarrhea, and malnutrition.
• Screening protocols: Standardized procedures used by healthcare providers to assess and detect illnesses in patients.
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