Background of the Study
Pressure ulcers, also known as pressure injuries or bedsores, are a major concern in healthcare settings, particularly among hospitalized patients with limited mobility. These injuries result from prolonged pressure on the skin, leading to tissue damage and potential complications such as infections, delayed healing, and increased morbidity (Gaspar et al., 2024). The prevalence of pressure ulcers remains a global health challenge, with studies indicating that patients in intensive care units (ICUs) and long-term care facilities are particularly vulnerable (Mervis & Phillips, 2023).
The burden of pressure ulcers in Nigerian healthcare institutions, including those in Gombe State, is significant. Various clinical nursing interventions, such as repositioning, pressure-relieving devices, skin care protocols, and nutritional support, have been implemented to reduce the incidence of pressure ulcers (Aloweni et al., 2024). However, despite these measures, pressure ulcers continue to pose challenges, often leading to increased hospitalization costs, prolonged hospital stays, and reduced quality of life for affected patients (Swafford et al., 2023).
The effectiveness of clinical nursing interventions in preventing pressure ulcers varies based on factors such as patient compliance, staffing levels, and adherence to best practices. In some healthcare settings, nurses may lack the necessary resources, training, or time to implement prevention strategies effectively (Cox et al., 2023). Additionally, while global guidelines provide standardized approaches to pressure ulcer prevention, contextual factors such as cultural practices, patient demographics, and healthcare policies influence their implementation and effectiveness in specific regions.
In Gombe State, there is limited empirical research on the impact of clinical nursing interventions on pressure ulcer prevention. Understanding the effectiveness of these interventions in local hospitals will help identify best practices, gaps in care, and potential improvements needed to enhance patient outcomes. This study aims to critically evaluate clinical nursing interventions used in Gombe State hospitals to determine their effectiveness in preventing pressure ulcers and recommend strategies for improvement.
Statement of the Problem
Pressure ulcers remain a persistent issue in Nigerian hospitals despite the availability of clinical nursing interventions designed to prevent them. The problem is particularly pronounced in Gombe State, where limited resources, inadequate staffing, and non-adherence to best practices may contribute to the high incidence of pressure ulcers among hospitalized patients (Kuffler, 2024). The economic and health-related consequences of pressure ulcers are considerable, leading to increased treatment costs, longer hospital stays, and greater risks of complications such as infections and sepsis (Moore & Webster, 2023).
Although several studies have explored pressure ulcer prevention globally, there is a gap in localized research focusing on Gombe State. It is unclear whether the interventions currently used in these hospitals are effective or whether modifications are necessary to improve patient outcomes. Furthermore, there is limited data on the level of awareness and implementation of evidence-based guidelines among nurses in the region (Sullivan & Schoonover-Shoffner, 2024). This study, therefore, seeks to evaluate the effectiveness of clinical nursing interventions in preventing pressure ulcers in hospitalized patients in Gombe State, with the goal of improving nursing practices and patient care.
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the effectiveness of clinical nursing interventions in preventing pressure ulcers in hospitalized patients in Gombe State.
2. To identify the challenges faced by nurses in implementing pressure ulcer prevention strategies in Gombe State hospitals.
3. To recommend evidence-based interventions for enhancing pressure ulcer prevention in healthcare facilities.
Research Questions
1. How effective are clinical nursing interventions in preventing pressure ulcers in hospitalized patients in Gombe State?
2. What challenges do nurses face in implementing pressure ulcer prevention strategies in Gombe State hospitals?
3. What evidence-based interventions can be recommended to improve pressure ulcer prevention in hospitals?
Research Hypotheses
1. Clinical nursing interventions significantly reduce the incidence of pressure ulcers in hospitalized patients in Gombe State.
2. The effectiveness of pressure ulcer prevention interventions is hindered by challenges such as inadequate staffing and limited resources.
3. Implementing evidence-based interventions will lead to a significant reduction in pressure ulcers among hospitalized patients.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study focuses on evaluating clinical nursing interventions for pressure ulcer prevention in selected hospitals in Gombe State. The scope includes examining existing prevention protocols, assessing nurses’ knowledge and adherence to best practices, and determining the impact of these interventions on patient outcomes.
However, the study has limitations. It may not account for variations in pressure ulcer incidence across different hospital departments, nor does it include private healthcare institutions. Additionally, the study relies on self-reported data from nurses, which may introduce biases.
Definitions of Terms
• Pressure Ulcer: A localized injury to the skin and underlying tissue caused by prolonged pressure, commonly occurring in bedridden or immobile patients.
• Clinical Nursing Intervention: Any action taken by nurses to prevent, manage, or treat a health condition, in this case, pressure ulcers.
• Evidence-Based Practice: The use of current best research evidence to make clinical decisions in patient care.
• Repositioning: A nursing intervention that involves moving patients at regular intervals to prevent pressure ulcer formation.
ABSTRACT
Children who grown up in the orphanage home may likely to affected in their culture tradition, and religion are...
Background of the Study
STEM education has been globally recognized as a cornerstone for developing critical thinking...
ABSTRACT
This study is entitled Appraisal of Collective Bargaining Process as a Mode of Settlement of Labour Disputes in Nigeria: Challen...
Background of the Study
With the increasing reliance on digital tools for collaboration and data sharin...
Background of the Study
In recent years, the authentication and verification of academic certificates h...
Background of the Study
Mobile payment solutions have gained widespread popularity glo...
ABSTRACT
There has been a rising concern on the security of the country. This project is focused on studying the effect of Law enforcemen...
Background of the study:
Infrastructural decay has emerged as a critical factor influencing urban crime dynamics in many Ni...
ABSTRACT: This study assessed the impact of early childhood education on...
Background of the Study
Informal education is widely recognized as a complementary approach that enriches the learning exp...