Background of the Study
Chemotherapy is a cornerstone of cancer treatment, offering the potential to treat and manage various forms of cancer (Salim et al., 2023). However, the administration of chemotherapy involves significant risks, including potential side effects such as nausea, immune suppression, and even organ damage. As a result, strict safety protocols are essential to minimize these risks and ensure the safety of both patients and healthcare providers (Olu et al., 2024). Oncology nurses are at the forefront of chemotherapy administration and are responsible for implementing these safety protocols, which include the proper handling and disposal of cytotoxic drugs, monitoring patients for adverse effects, and providing supportive care (Johnson et al., 2023).
At University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, Akwa Ibom State, the implementation of chemotherapy safety protocols is crucial to ensuring both patient safety and nursing efficacy. The knowledge and awareness of oncology nurses regarding chemotherapy safety protocols is fundamental to reducing the risk of chemotherapy-related complications. This study seeks to assess the level of knowledge among oncology nurses at University of Uyo Teaching Hospital regarding chemotherapy safety protocols and their ability to apply these protocols in clinical practice.
Statement of the Problem
While oncology nurses are integral to chemotherapy administration, there is limited research on their level of knowledge regarding chemotherapy safety protocols, particularly at University of Uyo Teaching Hospital. A lack of comprehensive understanding of safety protocols can lead to errors in drug administration, inadequate patient monitoring, and potential harm to patients. This study aims to evaluate the knowledge of oncology nurses regarding chemotherapy safety protocols and identify any gaps that may exist in their practice.
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the level of knowledge of chemotherapy safety protocols among oncology nurses at University of Uyo Teaching Hospital.
2. To evaluate the ability of oncology nurses to apply chemotherapy safety protocols effectively in clinical practice.
3. To identify the factors that may influence oncology nurses' knowledge and application of chemotherapy safety protocols.
Research Questions
1. What is the level of knowledge of chemotherapy safety protocols among oncology nurses at University of Uyo Teaching Hospital?
2. How effectively do oncology nurses apply chemotherapy safety protocols in clinical practice?
3. What factors contribute to variations in oncology nurses' knowledge and application of chemotherapy safety protocols?
Research Hypotheses
1. Oncology nurses at University of Uyo Teaching Hospital possess a sufficient level of knowledge regarding chemotherapy safety protocols.
2. There is a significant correlation between oncology nurses' knowledge of chemotherapy safety protocols and their ability to apply them in practice.
3. Factors such as training, experience, and institutional support influence the level of knowledge and application of chemotherapy safety protocols among oncology nurses.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on oncology nurses at University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, Akwa Ibom State. Limitations include potential biases in self-reported data from nurses regarding their knowledge and application of chemotherapy safety protocols, as well as variations in the implementation of protocols across different healthcare settings.
Definitions of Terms
• Chemotherapy Safety Protocols: Guidelines and procedures followed to ensure the safe administration of chemotherapy, including the correct handling of cytotoxic drugs, patient monitoring, and preventive measures to avoid complications.
• Oncology Nurses: Registered nurses specialized in the care of cancer patients, with responsibilities that include chemotherapy administration and patient monitoring.
• Clinical Practice: The application of nursing knowledge and skills in a healthcare setting, particularly in administering treatments and ensuring patient safety.
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