Background of the Study
Neutropenia, a common complication in cancer patients, especially those undergoing chemotherapy, is characterized by a low neutrophil count, which increases the risk of infection (Barker et al., 2024). Neutropenic patients are particularly vulnerable to infections, which can lead to severe complications, including sepsis and death (Kim et al., 2023). Nursing interventions play a crucial role in managing neutropenic cancer patients, focusing on infection prevention, monitoring for signs of infection, and administering appropriate treatments (Smith et al., 2024). Ladoke Akintola University Teaching Hospital in Osun State serves as a key institution for cancer treatment, providing a wide array of medical care, including specialized nursing interventions for neutropenic cancer patients.
Effective nursing interventions in the management of neutropenic patients include the use of protective isolation, prophylactic antibiotics, education on hygiene practices, and monitoring of blood counts and clinical signs (Nguyen & Allen, 2023). The role of oncology nurses in preventing infections and ensuring the early detection of infections in neutropenic patients is essential in improving patient outcomes. This study aims to evaluate the nursing interventions employed for neutropenic cancer patients at Ladoke Akintola University Teaching Hospital.
Statement of the Problem
Neutropenic cancer patients face a high risk of infection due to their compromised immune systems, and the effectiveness of nursing interventions can significantly influence patient survival and recovery. While many cancer centers implement standard protocols for managing neutropenia, there may be gaps in the application and consistency of these interventions at Ladoke Akintola University Teaching Hospital. This study seeks to evaluate the interventions used by oncology nurses and their effectiveness in managing neutropenic cancer patients.
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the nursing interventions provided to neutropenic cancer patients at Ladoke Akintola University Teaching Hospital.
2. To evaluate the effectiveness of these nursing interventions in preventing and managing infections in neutropenic cancer patients.
3. To identify the challenges faced by oncology nurses in managing neutropenic cancer patients.
Research Questions
1. What nursing interventions are implemented for neutropenic cancer patients at Ladoke Akintola University Teaching Hospital?
2. How effective are these nursing interventions in preventing infections in neutropenic cancer patients?
3. What challenges do oncology nurses face in managing neutropenic cancer patients?
Research Hypotheses
1. Nursing interventions for neutropenic cancer patients are effective in preventing infections and improving patient outcomes.
2. Oncology nurses’ knowledge and adherence to infection control protocols positively influence the outcomes for neutropenic cancer patients.
3. There are significant challenges in the management of neutropenic cancer patients at Ladoke Akintola University Teaching Hospital, which may affect patient outcomes.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study will focus on oncology nurses and their interventions for neutropenic cancer patients at Ladoke Akintola University Teaching Hospital. Limitations include the potential difficulty in obtaining comprehensive data due to the sensitive nature of infection control and the reliance on self-reporting by nurses.
Definitions of Terms
• Neutropenia: A condition characterized by an abnormally low level of neutrophils, which impairs the body's ability to fight infections.
• Nursing Interventions: Specific actions taken by nurses to manage patients' health conditions, such as administering medication, providing patient education, and implementing infection control measures.
• Infection Control: Measures taken to prevent and manage infections, particularly in immunocompromised patients like those with neutropenia.
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