Background of the Study
Oncology nursing involves providing care to patients suffering from cancer, which often requires not only technical skills but also empathy, trust-building, and effective communication (Kandil et al., 2023). An oncology nurse's attitude towards patients can significantly influence the development of a therapeutic relationship, trust, and ultimately, patient adherence to treatment regimens. Patients' trust in their healthcare providers is a cornerstone of effective healthcare delivery, particularly in oncology, where patients must undergo invasive treatments that can lead to fear and uncertainty (Roberts et al., 2024).
At Abia State University Teaching Hospital, oncology nurses are central to the care of cancer patients, particularly in the treatment adherence process. Positive attitudes, such as empathy, respect, and compassion, are believed to enhance patients' trust in the healthcare team, which in turn improves adherence to prescribed treatment regimens (Hussain et al., 2023). Conversely, negative attitudes from healthcare providers, such as indifference or dismissiveness, can create barriers to patient engagement, eroding trust and leading to decreased treatment adherence (Jones & David, 2024).
This study seeks to investigate how oncology nurses' attitudes impact patients' trust in their care and their adherence to cancer treatments at Abia State University Teaching Hospital, with a focus on identifying strategies to improve patient outcomes through better nurse-patient relationships.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the growing recognition of the importance of the nurse-patient relationship in oncology care, there is a need to assess the specific impact of oncology nurses' attitudes on patients' trust and adherence to treatment regimens. At Abia State University Teaching Hospital, there may be variations in nurses' attitudes, which could affect cancer patients' willingness to comply with treatment protocols. This study aims to evaluate how oncology nurses' attitudes influence patients' trust and their adherence to treatment.
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the relationship between oncology nurses' attitudes and patients' trust in their healthcare providers at Abia State University Teaching Hospital.
2. To examine the impact of oncology nurses' attitudes on cancer patients' adherence to treatment regimens.
3. To identify strategies for improving oncology nurses' attitudes toward enhancing patient trust and treatment adherence.
Research Questions
1. How do oncology nurses' attitudes influence patients' trust in their healthcare providers at Abia State University Teaching Hospital?
2. What is the effect of oncology nurses' attitudes on patients' adherence to cancer treatment regimens?
3. What strategies can improve oncology nurses' attitudes to foster better patient trust and treatment adherence?
Research Hypotheses
1. Positive oncology nurses' attitudes significantly increase patients' trust in their healthcare providers.
2. There is a significant correlation between oncology nurses' attitudes and cancer patients' treatment adherence.
3. Strategies to improve oncology nurses' attitudes lead to an increase in patient trust and better treatment adherence.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on oncology nurses' attitudes and their impact on patients' trust and treatment adherence at Abia State University Teaching Hospital, Abia State. Limitations include potential biases in patients' reporting of trust and adherence, and challenges in controlling for other factors that may influence adherence, such as socioeconomic status and family support.
Definitions of Terms
• Oncology Nurses' Attitude: The overall approach, demeanor, and emotional response of oncology nurses towards their patients.
• Trust: The confidence patients have in their healthcare providers to act in their best interest.
• Treatment Adherence: The extent to which patients follow prescribed treatment regimens.
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Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
Corporate communication is an integral...