Background of the Study
Infection control is a fundamental aspect of healthcare, particularly in oncology wards where immunocompromised patients are highly vulnerable to infections. Cancer patients, especially those undergoing chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or bone marrow transplants, often experience weakened immune systems, making them susceptible to hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) (World Health Organization, 2024). Proper infection control measures, including hand hygiene, personal protective equipment (PPE) use, environmental sanitation, and sterilization of medical instruments, are essential in reducing the risk of infections in oncology settings (Aliyu & Usman, 2023).
In Nigeria, and specifically in Katsina State, infection control adherence among healthcare workers, including nurses, has been a growing concern. Studies have shown that a lack of resources, inadequate training, high patient-to-nurse ratios, and poor compliance with standard infection control guidelines contribute to the spread of infections in healthcare facilities (Bello et al., 2023). In oncology wards, where patients have compromised immunity, failure to adhere to infection control measures can lead to life-threatening complications, prolonged hospital stays, and increased healthcare costs (Ibrahim & Yusuf, 2024).
Despite the critical importance of infection prevention in oncology care, limited research has been conducted on the level of compliance among nurses in Katsina State. This study aims to assess the adherence of oncology nurses to infection control protocols, identify barriers to compliance, and recommend strategies to improve infection prevention practices.
Statement of the Problem
Hospital-acquired infections remain a major cause of morbidity and mortality among cancer patients, particularly in resource-limited settings where infection control measures may not be strictly followed. In oncology wards, nurses play a crucial role in ensuring patient safety through strict adherence to infection control guidelines. However, studies indicate that non-compliance with standard precautions, such as hand hygiene, sterilization, and PPE use, continues to be a problem in many hospitals (Ahmed & Yusuf, 2023).
In Katsina State, where oncology care services are still developing, the level of infection control compliance among nurses remains largely unknown. Factors such as inadequate staffing, limited access to protective equipment, and lack of continuous training may contribute to poor adherence to infection control measures. Without a proper evaluation of infection prevention practices in oncology wards, the risk of infections among cancer patients may continue to rise, leading to preventable complications and deaths.
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the level of adherence of nurses to infection control protocols in oncology wards in Katsina State.
2. To identify barriers affecting compliance with infection control measures among oncology nurses.
3. To recommend strategies to improve infection prevention practices in oncology settings.
Research Questions
1. To what extent do oncology nurses in Katsina State adhere to infection control protocols?
2. What factors hinder compliance with infection prevention measures among oncology nurses?
3. What strategies can improve infection control adherence in oncology wards?
Research Hypotheses
1. Oncology nurses in Katsina State have suboptimal adherence to infection control protocols.
2. Limited resources and inadequate training negatively impact adherence to infection control measures.
3. Strengthening infection control training and providing adequate resources will improve compliance in oncology wards.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on nurses working in oncology wards in selected hospitals in Katsina State. Limitations may include variations in infection control practices across different hospitals and self-reported biases among nurses.
Definition of Terms
• Infection Control Protocols: Guidelines designed to prevent and minimize the spread of infections in healthcare settings.
• Oncology Wards: Hospital units dedicated to the care and treatment of cancer patients.
• Hospital-Acquired Infections (HAIs): Infections acquired during hospital stays that are not related to a patient’s initial diagnosis.
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