Background of the Study
Medical emergencies in children’s wards range from respiratory distress and seizures to anaphylaxis, cardiac arrest, and severe infections. Timely and appropriate intervention by pediatric nurses is critical in improving survival rates and preventing long-term complications (WHO, 2023). Given the unpredictable nature of pediatric emergencies, nurses must be well-trained and prepared to manage life-threatening conditions effectively (Afolabi et al., 2024).
Globally, studies have emphasized the importance of continuous emergency preparedness training for pediatric nurses to enhance their clinical skills and response time (UNICEF, 2024). In Nigeria, however, challenges such as inadequate training, poor staffing, and lack of essential medical supplies have been identified as major obstacles to optimal pediatric emergency care (Okonkwo & Musa, 2023). The ability of nurses to handle emergencies is particularly crucial in Gombe State, where limited healthcare resources and high pediatric disease burdens increase the risks associated with medical emergencies (Ibrahim et al., 2024).
Despite the recognized importance of pediatric nurses' preparedness in handling emergencies, there is limited research assessing their competence, training levels, and response efficiency in Gombe State. This study seeks to appraise the preparedness of pediatric nurses in managing medical emergencies in children’s wards, identify existing gaps, and propose strategies for enhancing their response capacity.
Statement of the Problem
Pediatric emergencies require immediate and skilled intervention, yet reports suggest that many nurses lack adequate preparedness to handle such situations effectively (Bello et al., 2024). In Gombe State, where child mortality rates remain high, insufficient emergency response skills among nurses can lead to preventable deaths. A major concern is the lack of access to regular training programs, emergency protocols, and essential medical equipment (Ahmed & Yusuf, 2023).
Studies indicate that inadequate preparedness among pediatric nurses is linked to high mortality rates in children’s wards due to delayed interventions and errors in emergency management (Ogundipe et al., 2024). However, limited empirical data exists on the current level of preparedness among pediatric nurses in Gombe State. This study aims to fill this gap by evaluating pediatric nurses' preparedness in handling medical emergencies and recommending strategies for improvement.
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the level of preparedness of pediatric nurses in handling medical emergencies in children’s wards in Gombe State.
2. To examine factors influencing pediatric nurses’ response to medical emergencies.
3. To propose strategies for improving pediatric nurses' emergency preparedness.
Research Questions
1. How prepared are pediatric nurses in handling medical emergencies in children’s wards in Gombe State?
2. What factors influence pediatric nurses’ response to medical emergencies?
3. What strategies can be implemented to improve emergency preparedness among pediatric nurses?
Research Hypotheses
1. Pediatric nurses in Gombe State have inadequate preparedness for handling medical emergencies.
2. Limited access to training and resources negatively impacts pediatric nurses’ emergency response.
3. Strengthening emergency training programs will significantly improve pediatric nurses’ preparedness.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study focuses on pediatric nurses working in children’s wards in hospitals in Gombe State, assessing their preparedness for managing medical emergencies. The study does not include other healthcare professionals such as emergency physicians or paramedics. A limitation of this study is the potential for recall bias in nurses’ self-reported preparedness levels.
Definitions of Terms
• Medical Emergency: A sudden and serious health condition requiring immediate intervention.
• Emergency Preparedness: The level of readiness and ability of nurses to manage critical health situations.
• Pediatric Nurse: A registered nurse specialized in caring for children in hospital settings.
• Resuscitation Protocols: Standardized guidelines for responding to life-threatening conditions such as cardiac arrest or respiratory failure.
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