Background of the Study
Patient education is a crucial aspect of cancer care, as informed patients are more likely to adhere to treatment regimens and participate actively in their care. Oncology nurses play a significant role in educating patients about cancer treatment options, side effects, symptom management, and lifestyle modifications to improve treatment outcomes (World Health Organization, 2024). Effective patient education helps in reducing anxiety, improving treatment adherence, and enhancing the overall quality of life for cancer patients (Aliyu & Usman, 2023).
In Benue State, cancer remains a growing health concern, yet awareness and knowledge about treatment options remain low among patients. Many cancer patients face challenges such as fear of treatment, lack of access to reliable health information, and misconceptions about cancer therapies (Bello et al., 2023). Oncology nurses, as frontline healthcare providers, are well-positioned to bridge this knowledge gap by providing evidence-based education and counseling on treatment procedures, medication adherence, and self-care practices (Ibrahim & Yusuf, 2024).
Despite the importance of oncology nurses in patient education, there is limited research on their effectiveness in delivering cancer-related health information in Benue State. This study seeks to assess the role of oncology nurses in educating cancer patients, evaluate their knowledge and communication skills, and identify challenges that may hinder effective patient education.
Statement of the Problem
Cancer treatment involves complex medical procedures, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery, which require patients to have adequate knowledge about their care plan. Oncology nurses are expected to provide clear and comprehensive information to patients regarding treatment expectations, side effects, and lifestyle adjustments. However, in Benue State, challenges such as low literacy levels, language barriers, and inadequate nurse-patient communication may affect the effectiveness of patient education (Ahmed & Yusuf, 2023).
Without proper education, cancer patients may fail to adhere to prescribed treatments, leading to poor outcomes, increased complications, and treatment abandonment. This study aims to explore the role of oncology nurses in patient education and identify strategies to improve their capacity in delivering accurate and accessible cancer-related information.
Objectives of the Study
1. To examine the role of oncology nurses in educating cancer patients about treatment and disease management in Benue State.
2. To assess the knowledge and communication skills of oncology nurses in delivering patient education.
3. To identify barriers that hinder effective patient education and propose solutions.
Research Questions
1. What is the role of oncology nurses in patient education on cancer treatment and management?
2. How knowledgeable and skilled are oncology nurses in providing patient education?
3. What challenges affect the effectiveness of oncology nurses in educating cancer patients?
Research Hypotheses
1. Oncology nurses play a significant role in patient education on cancer treatment and management in Benue State.
2. Limited communication skills and inadequate training negatively impact oncology nurses’ ability to educate patients.
3. Enhancing nurse-patient communication and providing structured educational programs will improve patient knowledge and treatment adherence.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on oncology nurses in selected healthcare facilities in Benue State. Limitations may include variations in patient education practices and potential difficulty in assessing the direct impact of nurse-led education on patient outcomes.
Definition of Terms
• Patient Education: The process of providing patients with information about their health conditions and treatment options.
• Cancer Treatment: Medical interventions, such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery, used to manage and treat cancer.
• Oncology Nurse: A specialized nurse trained in the care and treatment of cancer patients, including patient education and symptom management.
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