Background of the Study
Hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP) remains one of the most prevalent and dangerous nosocomial infections, contributing to significant morbidity and mortality among hospitalized patients. It is typically defined as pneumonia that occurs 48 hours or more after admission to the hospital and is not incubating at the time of admission. Patients who are critically ill, have compromised immune systems, or require invasive procedures are at a higher risk for HAP. The primary modes of transmission are through the aspiration of oropharyngeal contents, contact with contaminated surfaces, or exposure to pathogens in the hospital environment.
Nurses are often at the forefront of preventing and managing hospital-acquired infections, including HAP, through a variety of direct and indirect actions. These actions include adhering to infection control protocols, such as proper hand hygiene, maintaining the sterility of medical devices, monitoring patients for signs of infection, and providing respiratory support for at-risk patients. The Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Makurdi, is one of the leading healthcare institutions in Benue State, and understanding the role of nurses in reducing HAP is critical to improving patient outcomes. However, there is a need for an in-depth investigation into the effectiveness of nurses' interventions in preventing hospital-acquired pneumonia at FMC Makurdi.
Statement of the Problem
Hospital-acquired pneumonia remains a major health challenge at FMC Makurdi, despite the implementation of various infection control measures. Nurses, who play a vital role in infection prevention and patient care, may face challenges in implementing effective practices to prevent HAP due to factors such as understaffing, inadequate training, and the complex needs of critically ill patients. It is unclear whether nurses at FMC Makurdi are consistently adhering to best practices for preventing HAP and whether their role in reducing its incidence is adequately supported.
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the role of nurses in preventing hospital-acquired pneumonia at FMC Makurdi.
2. To evaluate the effectiveness of infection control measures and nursing interventions in reducing hospital-acquired pneumonia at FMC Makurdi.
3. To identify the challenges nurses face in preventing and managing hospital-acquired pneumonia at FMC Makurdi.
Research Questions
1. What is the role of nurses in preventing hospital-acquired pneumonia at FMC Makurdi?
2. How effective are infection control measures and nursing interventions in reducing hospital-acquired pneumonia at FMC Makurdi?
3. What challenges do nurses face in preventing hospital-acquired pneumonia at FMC Makurdi?
Research Hypotheses
1. Nurses at FMC Makurdi play a significant role in reducing hospital-acquired pneumonia through effective infection control practices.
2. Infection control measures implemented at FMC Makurdi significantly reduce the incidence of hospital-acquired pneumonia.
3. Challenges such as inadequate resources, training, and staffing hinder nurses' effectiveness in preventing hospital-acquired pneumonia at FMC Makurdi.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on the role of nurses in preventing hospital-acquired pneumonia at FMC Makurdi, evaluating both the interventions nurses utilize and the barriers they encounter. Limitations may include reliance on self-reported data from nurses, potential variability in infection control practices across different wards, and possible underreporting of pneumonia cases.
Definitions of Terms
• Hospital-Acquired Pneumonia (HAP): A type of pneumonia that is acquired during hospitalization, typically 48 hours or more after admission.
• Infection Control Measures: Practices and protocols aimed at preventing the transmission of infections, including hand hygiene, sterilization, and the use of personal protective equipment.
• Nursing Interventions: Actions taken by nurses to prevent or treat disease, manage patient care, and reduce complications, such as HAP.
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