An Evaluation of Pediatric Nurses' Adherence to Infection Control Protocols in Neonatal Intensive Care Units in Niger State
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Background of the Study
Infection control is a critical component of neonatal care, as newborns, particularly those in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs), are highly vulnerable to hospital-acquired infections (HAIs). Premature and critically ill neonates have underdeveloped immune systems, making them more susceptible to infections such as sepsis, pneumonia, and necrotizing enterocolitis (Adekunle et al., 2024). Studies indicate that strict adherence to infection control protocols—such as hand hygiene, proper sterilization of medical equipment, and appropriate use of personal protective equipment (PPE)—can significantly reduce the incidence of HAIs in NICUs (Williams & Hassan, 2023).
Pediatric nurses in NICUs play a crucial role in maintaining infection control practices to safeguard neonates. However, adherence to these protocols is often influenced by factors such as workload, hospital infrastructure, staff training, and institutional policies (Okonkwo & Musa, 2023). In Niger State, challenges such as understaffing, inadequate infection control training, and inconsistent enforcement of hospital hygiene policies contribute to the high prevalence of HAIs in NICUs (Ogunleye & Sanni, 2024).
Despite the availability of infection control guidelines set by the WHO and the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), gaps remain in their implementation and monitoring. Evaluating pediatric nurses’ adherence to infection control protocols in NICUs is essential for improving neonatal outcomes and reducing preventable infections in Niger State hospitals.
Statement of the Problem
Hospital-acquired infections remain a major concern in NICUs, leading to increased neonatal mortality and prolonged hospital stays. Many of these infections result from lapses in infection control practices, including improper hand hygiene, failure to sterilize equipment, and inadequate use of protective barriers (Chukwu & Ibrahim, 2024). Despite established protocols, research suggests that compliance among pediatric nurses varies due to systemic and individual challenges, including workload pressures, lack of training, and unavailability of hygiene supplies (Bello & Adeyemi, 2023).
The extent of adherence to infection control protocols in NICUs in Niger State remains unclear due to limited research. This study aims to assess how well pediatric nurses follow infection control guidelines, identify barriers to compliance, and recommend measures to improve infection prevention in neonatal care.
Objectives of the Study
- To evaluate the level of adherence of pediatric nurses to infection control protocols in NICUs in Niger State.
- To identify factors influencing adherence to infection control guidelines among pediatric nurses.
- To recommend strategies to enhance infection control practices in NICUs.
Research Questions
- To what extent do pediatric nurses adhere to infection control protocols in NICUs in Niger State?
- What factors influence nurses’ compliance with infection control guidelines?
- What strategies can be implemented to improve infection control in NICUs?
Research Hypotheses
H₀: Pediatric nurses do not adhere to infection control protocols in NICUs.
H₁: Pediatric nurses adhere to infection control protocols in NICUs.
H₀: There are no significant factors influencing nurses’ compliance with infection control guidelines.
H₁: There are significant factors influencing nurses’ compliance with infection control guidelines.
H₀: Implementing new strategies will not improve infection control practices in NICUs.
H₁: Implementing new strategies will improve infection control practices in NICUs.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study focuses on pediatric nurses in NICUs in Niger State, evaluating their adherence to infection control protocols. Limitations include differences in hospital policies, variations in nurses’ experience levels, and potential bias in self-reported compliance data. Findings may not be applicable to general pediatric wards or private hospitals.
Definitions of Terms
- Infection Control Protocols – Standardized procedures to prevent the spread of infections in healthcare settings.
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) – A specialized unit for critically ill or premature newborns.
- Hospital-Acquired Infections (HAIs) – Infections that occur in hospitalized patients due to exposure within the healthcare environment.
- Hand Hygiene – The practice of handwashing or sanitization to prevent disease transmission.
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