Background of the Study
Immunization is one of the most effective public health interventions for reducing childhood morbidity and mortality. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that vaccines prevent millions of deaths annually by protecting children against preventable diseases such as measles, polio, tuberculosis, and hepatitis B (WHO, 2024). However, the success of immunization programs relies heavily on the adherence of healthcare providers, particularly nurses, to standardized immunization schedules.
In Nigeria, primary healthcare centers (PHCs) serve as the backbone of immunization services, with nurses playing a pivotal role in administering vaccines, educating caregivers, and ensuring timely immunization (Eze et al., 2023). Despite national immunization programs, vaccine-preventable diseases remain a significant health burden in many regions, including Kaduna State, where inconsistent compliance with immunization schedules has been reported (Bello et al., 2024).
Nurses’ adherence to immunization schedules is influenced by factors such as vaccine availability, workload, training, and healthcare infrastructure. Studies indicate that poor compliance with immunization schedules can lead to incomplete vaccination coverage, leaving children vulnerable to preventable diseases (Ogundele & Yusuf, 2023). Additionally, parental hesitancy, logistical challenges, and inadequate record-keeping contribute to lapses in immunization services (Aliyu et al., 2024).
Given the critical role of nurses in immunization delivery, evaluating their compliance with immunization schedules in Kaduna State is essential for identifying gaps and improving immunization coverage.
Statement of the Problem
Despite government efforts to improve immunization coverage, Nigeria still experiences periodic outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases. In Kaduna State, reports indicate that immunization compliance is inconsistent, leading to an increased risk of disease outbreaks (Usman et al., 2023). While immunization programs exist, issues such as inadequate vaccine supply, insufficient training, and documentation errors hinder full adherence to schedules (Abubakar et al., 2024).
Previous studies suggest that proper nurse training, supervision, and motivation can significantly enhance compliance with immunization schedules (Okafor et al., 2023). However, there is limited research on how these factors specifically impact nurses’ adherence to immunization schedules in primary healthcare centers in Kaduna State.
This study seeks to evaluate nurses' compliance with immunization schedules, assess the challenges faced, and recommend solutions to enhance immunization service delivery.
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the level of nurses’ compliance with immunization schedules in primary healthcare centers in Kaduna State.
2. To identify the factors affecting nurses’ adherence to immunization schedules.
3. To propose strategies for improving immunization compliance among nurses in Kaduna State.
Research Questions
1. What is the level of nurses’ compliance with immunization schedules in primary healthcare centers in Kaduna State?
2. What factors influence nurses' adherence to immunization schedules?
3. What strategies can be implemented to improve compliance with immunization schedules in Kaduna State?
Research Hypotheses
1. Nurses in primary healthcare centers in Kaduna State do not fully comply with immunization schedules.
2. Institutional and logistical factors significantly impact nurses’ adherence to immunization schedules.
3. Implementing targeted interventions can improve nurses’ compliance with immunization schedules.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study will focus on primary healthcare centers in Kaduna State, evaluating nurses’ compliance with immunization schedules through observational data and interviews. Limitations include potential recall bias in self-reported adherence and variations in vaccine availability that may influence compliance levels.
Definition of Terms
• Immunization Schedule: A timeline for the administration of vaccines to ensure optimal protection against diseases.
• Primary Healthcare Centers (PHCs): Community-based healthcare facilities that provide essential medical services, including immunization.
• Vaccine Compliance: The extent to which healthcare providers adhere to recommended immunization protocols.
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