Category: Nursing Science

Knowledge And Perception Of Pregnancy Induced Hypertension Among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Care In Nwaorieubi Health Centre Mbaitoli Lga

ABSTRACT

Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension (PIH) is a condition in pregnancy where a normotensive woman develops a high blood pressure of about 140/90mmH after 20^th week of gestation. The primary aim of this study was to ascertain the knowledge, and perception of pregnancy induced hypertension among pregnancy women attending antenatal care in Nwaorieubi Health Centre in Mbaitoli LGA. The result of the study was significant to the pregnant women, health personnel, and society and future researchers. Four objectives and four research questions were formulated by the research which served as a guide for data collection. Descriptive research method was used and the sample size involved 100 pregnant women who attended antenatal care in IMSUTH using simple random sampling technique with replacement. Close ended questionnaire were administered and analyzed. The study showed that there is 30 (30%) incidence of PIH. 81 (81%) is knowledgeable about PIH, about 71(87.7%) of the respondents believed that PIH could be treated in the hospital and 72 (88.9%) said it could be prevented. The study showed that there is good knowledge, positive attitude towards pregnancy induced hypertension. The study recommended that government should establish more health center in the rural areas so that pregnant women will have access to health facilities which will discourage them from going to traditional birth attendants for their treatments. The researcher suggested that a similar study should be carried out in their hospitals and health centers so as to poor knowledge and negative attitudes of pregnancy induced hypertension and also reduce maternal deaths.

Keywords: Knowledge, perception, pregnancy, induced hypertension.

CHAPTER ONE

•   INTRODUCTION

1.1     Background of Study

Pregnancy is a normal phenomenon every woman undergoes. Hypertension does not exist in women naturally but contains factors among others which include stress, heredity, obesity and pregnancy. When hypertension occur due to pregnancy, it usually starts after 20 weeks of gestation and frequent occurrences are often seen at term and this is called pregnancy induced hypertension. Recent figures indicate that globally, 629,000 women die due to pregnancy induced hypertension each year. The effect of mental death on house income, household productivity and household disintegration has been widely described (Jones, 2010). More so, maternal deaths cause one million children to become motherless annually. Therefore concern for the significant mortality and morbidity associated with pregnancy induced hypertension is prominent on global health agendas (Ojo & Briggs 2011).

Maternal deaths could be prevented if woman were able to have adequate knowledge and positive attitude towards utilization of antenatal services, refraining from their diabolic practices and then, utilize high quality antenatal services especially when complication arise (Calder & Dunlop, 2010). In recent times, they have been a lot of complications arising from child birth higher incident in developing countries. Oyira, Mgbekem and Okon (2010) said that World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that one out of every 22 women in Africa die from pregnancy related complications many complication as a result of pregnancy, some of them pre-existing and worsen with pregnancy itself and normally stop as soon as pregnancy is over. The incidence of pregnancy induced hypertension varies from country to country. This is as a result of lack of knowledge, attitude towards pregnancy induce hypertension (PIH) in pregnant women as many of them who attend antenatal clinic in Nwaorieubi Health Centre in Mbaitoli Local Government Area (L.G.A) are seemingly diagnosed as having PIH. It has recorded that pregnancy are rising from pregnancy. It occurs more frequently in young primigravida and mothers over 35 years of age (Calder and Dunlop, 2010).

Fraser and cooper (2012) stated that pregnancy induced hypertension is known to be associated with hydatiform mole, multiple pregnancy and maternal condition where there is a greater mass of placental tissue. Although, according to them, the exact nature of the primary event causing pregnancy induced hypertension is not known but evidence accumulated over the past few years indicate that abnormal placentation may be one of the initial events in the disease process. the researchers interest on PIH was stimulated while on clinical placement in antenatal clinic in Nwaorieubi Health Centre in Mbaitoli L.G.A. through observation and interaction, she discovered that some pregnant women who did not record any hypertensive conditions in their non pregnant status and neither at their initial booking records, are having raised blood pressure proteinuria after 20 weeks of pregnancy. This promoted the researcher to design this study to determine the knowledge and attitude of pregnancy induced hypertension among pregnant women attending antenatal care in N Nwaorieubi Health Centre in Mbaitoli L.G.A.

1.2   Statement of Problem

Pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH), also known as gestational hypertension, is a grave concern within the realm of maternal and neonatal healthcare. It stands as a significant contributor to maternal morbidity and mortality globally. In the context of Imo State, Nigeria, this issue becomes even more pertinent due to the state’s unique socio-economic and healthcare landscape.

Despite the known perils associated with PIH, there is a palpable dearth of understanding among the pregnant women attending antenatal care in Mbaitoli LGA, Imo State. The problem, at its core, lies in the lack of awareness, understanding, and accurate perception of this condition among the very individuals who are at risk, namely the pregnant women themselves. This knowledge gap exacerbates the already challenging healthcare situation in the state and leaves a multitude of expectant mothers susceptible to grave health risks.

Firstly, there is a striking lack of awareness regarding the existence of PIH among pregnant women in Mbaitoli LGA, Imo State. PIH is often a silent condition, presenting with symptoms that may be attributed to the normal discomforts of pregnancy. Calder and Dunlop (2010) asserted that the absence of early recognition of hypertension in pregnancy can lead to delayed medical intervention, with potentially catastrophic consequences for both the mother and the unborn child.

Secondly, understanding the risk factors and symptoms associated with PIH is fundamental for timely intervention. However, there is a glaring deficit in knowledge among pregnant women attending antenatal care in Mbaitoli LGA, Imo State regarding these critical aspects. Without the ability to recognize the signs and symptoms of PIH, these women are at a severe disadvantage when it comes to seeking medical attention promptly.

Thirdly, the perceptions and attitudes of pregnant women in Mbaitoli LGA, Imo State towards PIH significantly impact their healthcare-seeking behavior. It is crucial to understand their perceptions, fears, and beliefs concerning this condition. If misconceptions or fears prevail, it can deter women from seeking timely medical care or adhering to recommended preventive measures and treatments.

Lastly, Andrea and Landi (2012) had stated in their article that demographic factors such as age, education, and socioeconomic status are recognized determinants of health knowledge and perception. An exploration of how these factors influence awareness and understanding of PIH among pregnant women in Mbaitoli LGA, Imo State is vital. Such insights can help in designing targeted interventions that account for these variations and ensure equitable access to crucial healthcare information.

In light of these multifaceted issues, this research project aims to delve into the knowledge and perception of PIH among pregnant women attending antenatal care in Mbaitoli LGA, Imo State. By identifying the root causes of knowledge gaps and misconceptions, the study endeavors to contribute to the development of targeted interventions and educational programs aimed at improving maternal health outcomes, reducing the burden of PIH in the state and ultimately safeguard the lives and well-being of both mothers and their unborn children in Mbaitoli LGA, Imo State, Nigeria.

1.3   Objectives of the study

The purpose of this study is to investigation the knowledge and perception of PIH among pregnant women attending antenatal clinic at Nwaorieubi Health Centre in Mbaitoli L.G.A. Specifically the objective is set to:

1. determine the level of knowledge of pregnancy include hypertension among pregnant women attending antenatal clinic in Nwaorieubi Health Centre in Mbaitoli L.G.A.
2. ascertain the views of pregnant women towards pregnancy induced hypertension.
3. identify the causes of pregnancy induced hypertension.
4. determine the preventive measures of pregnancy induced hypertension adopted by pregnant women.

1.4   Research Questions

1. What is the level of knowledge of pregnancy induced hypertension among pregnant women attending antenatal clinic at Nwaorieubi Health Centre in Mbaitoli L.G.A.?
2. What are the views of pregnant women towards pregnancy induced hypertension?
3. What are the causes of pregnancy induced hypertension?
4. What are the preventive measures of pregnancy induced hypertension adopted by the pregnant women?

1.5   Significance of the Study

The result of this study will be beneficial to the pregnant women, health personnel, society, and future researchers.

• The information that will be obtained from the study will enable the health team in providing evidenced based health talks to general society and particularly the pregnant women with accurate information that will help in changing their seemingly negative attitudes about pregnancy induced hypertension
• It will also help in enlightening the general public particularly the folk about preventive practices that will reduce pregnancy induced hypertension among pregnant women.
• Other researchers will borrow a leave from it.
• The government could use it to make policies and provide better resources to reduce the morbidity and mortality rate from it.

1.6   Scope of the study

The study was delimited to Nwaorieubi Health Centre and to the antenatal section of Nwaorieubi Health Centre in Mbaitoli L.G.A. it was further delimited to the pregnant women particularly those who attend antenatal clinic at Nwaorieubi Health Centre in Mbaitoli L.G.A.

1.7   Operational Definition of terms

• Knowledge: Generalized body of laws and theories to explain a phenomenon or behavior of interest that are acquired using the scientific method.
• Perception: The organization, identification, and interpretation of information in order to represent and understand the presented information or environment.
• Pregnancy Induced Hypertension: Hypertension that occurs after 20 weeks of gestation in women with previously normal blood pressure.
  

  ---

  Pages:  66

  Category: Project

  Format:  Word & PDF               

  Chapters: 1-5                                          

  Source: Imsuinfo

  Material contains Table of Content, Abstract and References.

ABSTRACT

This is a client care study on Mrs. O. A., with the diagnosis of cerebrovascular Accident in Holy Rosary Hospital Emekuku, Owerri, Imo State. Mrs. O. A. was admitted on the 16^th of April 2018. Some investigations were carried out like: urinalysis, fasting blood sugar, HIV test. Objective of this us to educate and enlighten the client on the disease process, the causes, clinical manifestation, prevention and management of disease as well as to render holistic care to the client. The significance of this study is that re-occurring cardiovascular diseases can be prevented by addressing behavioral risk factors, such as unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, harmful use of hard substance, using population wide strategies. Data collected on cerebrovascular accident in Holy Rosary hospital shows that about 25% of females admitted are death prone cases and cerebro-vascular accident. The client care study helped me to acquire god knowledge of the process and management of the disease and has helped me educate Mrs. O. A; family on the complications that may arise is not properly treated.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

Cerebrovascular Accident (stroke) is the primary cerebrovascular disorder in the world. It is the third leading cause of mortality, besides heart disease and cancer. Approximately 800,000 people experiences stroke each year in the United States (U.S).

Cerebrovascular disorder, according to Waugh and Grant A. (2015) is a vascular disease that occurs when blood flow to the brain is suddenly disrupted or interrupted causing hypoxia.

Cerebovascular accident can also be defined and sudden death of some brain cells, due to lack of oxygen when the blood flow to the brain is impaired by blockage or rupture of an artery to the brain.

According to W.H.O (2009) cerebrovascular accidents were the second most frequent causes of death worldwide, accounting for 6.8 million death. Approximately 17.5 million people have previously has a stroke and are still alive; today, stroke is the leading cause of serious long-term disability in most developed countries of the world (Smeltzer, Bare et al., 2009). The financial impact of stroke is profound.

Smeltzer, Bare et al, (2009) opined that it can be divided into two categories. Ischemic (85%) in which vascular and significant hypertension occurs and hemorrhagic (15%) in which there is extravasations of blood into the brain or Arachnid space. Although the broad types of stroke have some.

Background of Study

A stroke or “brain attack” occurs when a blood clot blocks the blood flow in a vessel or artery or when a blood vessel breaks.

There are two types if brain attack- they are chemic and hemorrhagic. When brain cells die during a stroke, abilities controlled by that area of the brain are loss.

These abilities include speech, movement and memory. How a stroke patient is affected depends on where the stroke occurred in the brain and how much the brain was damaged.

According to medical records in Holy Rosary Hospital, Emekuku, Owerri, Imo State, cerebrovascular accident has been a common illness in adults, most especially in female. They recorded vascular accident between September 2017 to April 2018 as stated below:

September 2017            –                   2

October 2017                 –                   1

November 2017            –                   2

December 2017            –                   3

January 2018                –                   Nil

February 2018               –                   2

March 2018                    –                   1

April, 2018                      –                   1

Objectives of the Study

• To give the client a better and clear understanding of cerebrovascular accident and its disease processes.
• To enlighten the client on some of the life modifications for people living with stroke like- assistive devices, to enhance self care after stroke.
• To create awareness to the public that cerebrovascular accident is preventable and educate them on ways of preventing it.
• To educate the public living with cerebrovascular disorder e.g hypertension on the need for adequate management and adherence to treatment regime, to avoid complications that may result to loss of function (neurologic function) and death.
• To enlighten the readers of this work especially students on the nursing and medical management of clients, suffering from cerebrovascular accident and ways of preventing it.

Significance of Study

• CUA are the number 1 cause of death globally: more people die annually, from C.U.A, than from and other cause
• An estimated 17.5 million people died from C.U.A. in (2012), resenting 31% of an global deaths in Nigeria.
• Most cardiovascular disease can be prevented by addressing behavior risk factors, such as tobaccos use, unhealthy diet, and obesity, physical inactively and harmful use of alcohol, using population wide – strategies.
• People with cardiovascular disease or who are at high cardiovascular risk (due to the pressure of one hyperlipidemia, or already established disease), need early detection and management using counseling and medicines as appropriate

Definition Of Terms

• Aneurysm: A weakening or bug in an arsenal wall
• Apraxra: inability, to perform previously learned purposeful motor act: on a voluntary basis
• Ataxra: impairment of coordinated movement often seen as a staggering gait or postural imbalance.
• Atherona: an abnormal mass of fatly material with a fibrous covering, existing in a disease raised plaque within the infima of artery.
• Dysarrthria: defect of articulation due to neurologic causes.
• Expressive aphasis: inability, to express oneself often associated with damage to the left frontal lobe area.
• Hemiphegia/hemiparesis: weakness or paralysis of one side of the body, or part of it, due to an injury to the motor area of the brain.
• Infarction: a zone of tissue deprived of blood supply.
• Korsa koff’s syndrome: personality disorder, characterized by
• Penumbra region: area of low cerebral blood flow.
• Receptive aphasia: inability to understand word some one else is saying; often associated with damage to the temporal lobe area.

ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY OF THE BRAIN

The Brain

The brain constitutes above one-fifteen of the body weight.

Position: it lies within the article cavity.

The brain is divided into:

Cerebrum

Thalamus                                        the diencephalons

Hypothalamus

 

Mid brain

Pons

Medulla oblongata                           the Brain stems.

Cerebellum

CEREBRUM:

This is the largest part of the brain and it occupies the anterior and middle cranial fosses. It is divided by a deep cleft, the longitudinal cerebral tissue into right and left cerebral hemispheres. Each hemisphere of the cerebral i.e. divided into a lobe which takes the name of the bones of the cranium under which they lied, they are as following

• Frontal
• Temporal
• Parietal
• Occipital

The boundaries of the lobes are moved by deep suler, these are central sulci, lateral sucli and paricto occipital sulci.

Functions Of Cerebrum

1. Mental activities involved in memory, intelligence sense of responsibility, thinking, reasoning, moral sense and learning.
2. Sensory perception; including the perception of pain, temperature touch, signs, hearing, taste and smell.
3. Initiation and control of skeletal muscle contracting and therefore voluntary movement.

Thalamus

This consists of two masses of grey and white matter, situate within the cerebral hemisphere just below the corps callosum, one each side of the third ventricle. Sensory receptors in the skin and viscera sends information about touch, pain and temperature and input from special sense organs, transfers to the thalamus where is it recognized. The thalamus relays and redistributes impulses from most parts of the brain to the cerebral cortex.

Hypothalamus

The hypothalamus is a small but important structure which weighs about 7gram and consists of a number of Nuclei. It is situated below and in front of thalamus, immediately above the pituary glands.

Functions of the Hypothalamus

• It controls the output of hormones from both lobes of the pituary gland
• It controls appetite and satiety
• It controls thirst and water balance, body temperature, emotional reactions e.g. pleasure, fear.
• It controls sexual behavior and child rearing, sleeping and waking cycles.

MIDBRAIN

This is the area of the brain situated around the cerebral aqueduct between the cerebrum above the pins below. It consists of nuclei and nerve fibre which connects the cerebrum with lower parts of the brain and with the spinal cord. The nucleus acts as relay stations for ascending and descending news fibres.

PONS

The Pons is situated in front of the cerebrum below the mid brain and above medulla oblongata. It consists mainly of nerve fibres which forms a bridge between the two hemispheres of the cerebrum and of fibers, passing between the higher levels of the brain and spinal cord.

Medulla Oblongata

It extends from the point above and is continuous with the spinal cord below.  It is about 2.5cm long and it lies just within the cranium above the foreman magum.

It consists of both grey and white matters. The white matters are the fibres running to and for the cerebrum and spinal cord.

Functions of Medulla Oblongata

1. Cardiac Centers: controls the rate of heart beat, sympathetic and parasympathetic nerve fibres pass from the medulla to the heart.
2. The respiratory centre controls the rate and depth of respiration.
3. The vaso motor center control the diameter of the blood vessels, especially the small arteries and arteriories.

The Cerebellum

The cerebellum is situated behind the pons and immediately below the posterior cranial fossa. It is oval in shape and has two hemisphere, separated by a neurons median strip called the dermis.

Grey matter forms the surfaces of the cerebrum and white matter lies deep.

Functions of the cerebellum

1. It is concerned with the co-ordination of voluntary muscular movement, posture and balance.
2. It controls and co-ordinates the movement of various groups of muscles, ensuring smooth even and precise actions.
3. It co-ordinates activities associated with maintenance of the balance and equillibrum of the body.

BLOOD SUPPLY AND DRAINAGE 

The supply of blood to the head arises from the left and right common carotid arteries. These supply blood to the anterior part of the brain and the vertebral arteries supply the posterior part.

The greater part of the brain is supplied with blood by the circle of Willis on unusual configuration of anatomized blood vessels, located in the base of the brain.

Venous drainage is by small veins in the brain stem and cerebellum and external and internal veins, draining the cerebrum, some of the external and internal veins, empty into one lalrge vein, called the vein of Galen (Great cerebral vein).

Unlike other parts of the body, these veins do not correspond with their arterial supply. All these vein, empty directly into a system of venous sinuses. The principal sinuses, are the superior and inferior sagittal, the straight transverse sigmoid and cavernous sinuses.

---

Pages:  48

Category: Project

Format:  Word & PDF               

Chapters: 1-5                                          

Source: Imsuinfo                                     

Material contains Table of Content, Abstract and References.       

ABSTRACT

The study is on “knowledge and factors associated with the practice exclusive breast feeding among pregnant mothers in holy rosary hospital Emekuku, Owerri North L.G.A Imo State.” The study has four objectives and four research questions.  Descriptive research design was used for the study. The target population was 100 Nursing mothers who come for immunization in antenatal clinic of Holy Rosary Hospital Emekuku. A convenience of accidental sample was adopted in getting information from the subjects – 100 is selected as the sample size. The instrument for data collection was a self-structured Questionnaire. Its development was based on the research questions for the study. The findings of this study revealed that exclusive breast feeding is the feeding of an infant with no other food or drink besides breast milk. Exclusive breast feeding never practiced till the optimal duration of 6 months, the benefits of exclusive breast feeding include less diarrhea, less expensive, boost immunity and high intelligence. The benefits of exclusive breast feeding include less diarrhea, less expensive, boost immunity and high intelligence. Based on the findings, the study therefore recommends that family members to support the mothers in practicing of exclusive breast feeding. Nurses should organize seminars, workshops and Health talks on exclusive breast feeding up to the grass root level. Hospitals and health care centers should be baby friendly that is not allowing artificial feed in their hospitals and health care centers. Health care personnels should health educate mothers on exclusive breast feeding and its advantages.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1   BACKGROUND OF STUDY

National and international guidelines recommend that all infants should be exclusively breastfeed till six months of age. Exclusive breast feeding has dramatically reduced the rate of infant mortality and morbidity rate since it helps to reduce diarrhea and other related infection. (Amin, 2011).

Exclusive breast feeding has been defined by the WHO as the situation where “the infant receives only breast milk from his/her mother or a wet nurse or expressed breast milk and no other liquids, or solids with the exception of drops or syrups consisting of vitamins minerals, supplements or medicines.

Prior to the twentieth century alternatives to 15^th century by Europe to the use of cow milk or goat milk we are not positive. In 18^th century, flour, cereals (mixed with both) were introduced as a substitute for breast feeding but this do not have a favourable outcome either.

True commercial infants formals appeared in the 19^th century but their use did not become widespread until after WWII. As the superior qualities of breast milk become better established in medical literatures breast feeding rate have enacted measured to protect the right of infant, and mothers to breast feed.

However mobrbacher and stock, (2013) contributed that mothers believed that breast feeding is the best nutrition for infants growth and health but the value of exclusive breast feeding is not well understood. Literate mothers who had professional both attendance clinics initiate breast feeding early.

1.2   Statement of Problem

In Emekuku Community, using Holy Rosary Hospital Emekuku. It was made compulsory that every Wednesday of the week. Pregnant mother should be health educated based on the prenatal preparation toward the welcome of the new born baby.

Despite the information related to exclusive breast feeding and more especially that of policy statement made by American Academy of pediatrics in 1997, it has been observed that most children still die of respiratory tract infection, enterocolitis e.t.c. discussion with a good number of Nursing mothers in Holy Rosary Hospital Emekuku revealed that most mothers do not know much about exclusive breast feeding and hence never practiced it.

These findings prompted the probing into the knowledge of factors associated with the practice of exclusive breast feeding among pregnant mothers in Holy Rosary Hospital Emekuku Community Owerri North Local Government Area, Imo state.

Thus a research on Nursing mothers knowledge of factor associated with practice of exclusive breast feeding become relevant to health care services development especially nursing profession.

 

1.3   OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

To assess the level of knowledge of Nursing mothers towards exclusive breast feeding in Emekuku Community, Owerri North Local Government Area, Imo State.

To ascertain the level of practice of exclusive breast feeding among pregnant mothers in Holy Rosary Hospital Emekuku.

To identify the factors associated with the practice of exclusive breast feeding in Emekuku Community.

To determine the benefits of exclusive breast feeding

1.4   RESEARCH QUESTIONS

What are the benefits of exclusive breast feeding?

What are the constraints to effective exclusive breast feeding practice among mothers in Holy Rosary Hospital Emekuku?

Do mothers in Holy Rosary, Owerri North Local Government Area, Imo State practice exclusive breast feeding?

How are the Nursing mothers affected as a resulted of not being able to practice exclusive breastfeeding accurately?

1.5   SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

It will help to promote the general health and growth of the infant

It will positively improve the practice of exclusive breast feeding by generality of Nursing mothers.

It will help researchers to gain more insight into exclusive breast feeding

It serve as a base data for other individual who might be interested in carrying out a research on exclusive breast feeding practices.

1.6 SCOPE OF STUDY

This study was delimited to mothers who are breast feeding their babies and attend antenatal clinic at Holy Rosary Hospital Emekuku, Owerri North Local Governmnet Area, Imo State. Data collection will be limited to facts gotten from the research instruments to administered on the study populations.

1.7 DEFINITIONS OF TERMS

Breast feeding: Is the act of feeding the baby with breast milk

Exclusive Breast Feeding: It the feeding of baby only on breast milk without water from birth to 6 months of age.

Knowledge: An idea about something

Practice: Act of doing something

Nursing Mothers: Women who are breastfeeding babies.

---

Pages:  43

Category: Project

Format:  Word & PDF        

Chapters: 1-5                                 

Material contains Table of Content, Abstract and References.

---

ABSTRACT

This research study was conducted to determine the attitude of parents towards sex education to their children age (10 – 19) years in Ogube Ihube Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State. Based on the purpose, four objectives were stated which are; to assess the attitude of parents towards imparting sex education to their children, to find out factors influencing the attitude of parents towards sex education, to ascertain the consequences of not imparting sex education and to determine ways of changing the attitude of parents towards sex education. Literatures were reviewed in which opinions and ideas of different authors were gathered about the topic. A descriptive research design was adopted in which structured questionnaires were formulated and used for data collection while simple random sampling technique was used to select a sample size of 100 respondents out of 250 target population. Responses and data collected was arranged using simple percentile tables and bar charts and was analyzed using Likert scale as findings was discussed and based on the findings, it was concluded that parent’s attitude towards sex education was negative with a grand mean score of 2.3 which is below a decision rule of 2.5 in Ogube Ihube Okigwe L.G.A of Imo State. Recommendations were made to help curb these problems such as sex education should be taught through media like television and radio education and also organizing workshops and seminars for parents in order to boost their knowledge pertaining to sex education.

Key words: Attitude, sex education, children, age.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study

World Health Organization (WHO) 2012, defined sex education as constructions on issues relating to human sexuality including emotional relation and responsibilities, human sexual anatomy, sexual activity, sexual reproduction, age of consent, reproductive health, reproductive rights, safe sex, birth control and sexual abstinence.

WHO (2012), also defines as adolescent as any person between the age of 10 and 19 years.

Kodogoda (2012), said that adolescent period (10 to 19) years old is a crucial phase of life and it is a stressful period in which the adolescent tries to adjust to his/her varied physical, emotional and psychological changes. Some parents have a negative perception about sex education, they deemed sex education to be a taboo to their adolescent children.

According to Derek (2015), all theories of adolescent development gives sexuality a central prominence in negotiating the transition from childhood to adulthood. Sexual education may be properly used or abused, because the association between sex and adolescence has often been described as a period of storm and stress suggesting that this is tumultuous and critical stage of life,.

Globally, research has shown that in developed countries like America, Canada and European countries, adolescents constantly want to receive information about sexuality from their parents and teachers. Parents and their children do discuss numerous issues related to sexuality but the frequency of these discussions and the topics covered varies. Adolescents being highly restless and inquisitive group of people will always seek to learn about sexuality from neighbours, electronic media, music, books and internet. They also learn through planned activities in faith communities and schools (International Planned parenthood federation, 2013).

In developing countries especially African, a confluence of cultural, religious and geographical factors create a sensitive environment where issues of sexual and reproductive health have remain highly a taboo for decades. Sexual health suppose to be an important determinant of productivity and national development globally, yet in Nigeria, a mere mention of “SEX” seems to invoke itchy feeling in both the young and old. Adults have usually refrained from discussing sexual matters with the young and traditionally, children are brought up with strict discipline and fear and are punished for questioning their parents on sexual matters. In attempt to catch up with the adults and societal demand, they therefore engage in sexuality complexities such as extra-marital sex which is surrounded by consequences like unwanted pregnancies, unsafe abortion and sexual transmissible diseases (EzimoKhian, 2015).

Presently in the developing countries, very few parents have embraced positive sex education and are actively inculcating it to their children. But majority of the parents still have divergent views on sex education which poses a lot of problems making them to refrain from imparting sex education to their children. (Ansah-Addor, 2014).

Nevertheless, these parents are ignorance of the importance of sex education which aims at reducing the rate of unwanted pregnancies, transmission of diseases such as HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases. It also offers accurate information about sexuality for young people to develop and understand their values, attitudes and beliefs about sexuality which goes a long way to improve the adolescent sexual health life. (Ragan, 2015).

Augus (2011), also states that home based sexuality education by parents and school based sexuality education by teacher complements and auguments the sexuality education children receives from their peer groups, religions and community, so as to inculcate the understanding of positive sexuality view as well as provide them with information and skill s about taking care of their sexual health and help them make sound decisions now and in the future.

Ragan (2015), also contend that sex education or family life education is very vital and parents should start very early to impact right information to their children. This present research study narrates the attitude of parents towards sex education to their children age (10 – 19) years.

Statement of Problem

Today, the problem resulting from lack of sex education to the adolescents are numerous. The researcher on an open interaction with some parents of adolescents in Ogube Ihube Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State observed that they reacted negatively towards inculcating sex education to their children. Some of them sees it as a taboo and a way of teaching them to be promiscuous.

The researcher also observed that in Ogube community that there are high incidence of unwanted pregnancies, increased abortion, high incidence of sexually transmitted disease and high rate of sexual promiscuity among adolescents (10 – 19), poor school performance and high rate of school dropout.

All these problems observed in Ogube Ihube Okigwe motivated the researcher into writing this inorder to determine the attitude of parents towards sex education to their children inorder to proffer solution to this social problems.

Objective of the Study

The broad objective of this study is to investigate on the attitude of parents towards sex education to their children age (10-19) years in Ogube Ihube Okigwe LGA of Imo state.

The specific objectives of this study is to;

1. Assess the attitude of parents towards imparting sex education to their children.
2. Find out factors influencing the attitude of parents towards sex education.
3. Ascertain the consequences of n not imparting sex education.
4. Determine ways of changing the attitude of parents towards sex education.

Research Questions

The following research questions have been carefully drawn to achieve a successful work;

1. What are the attitude of parents towards sex education on their adolescents?
2. What are the factors that influence the attitude of parents towards sex education?
3. What are the consequences of not imparting sex education?
4. What are the ways of changing parents attitude towards sex education?

Significance of the Study

This study will enable parents to appreciate the need for them to develop a positive attitude towards sex education and imparting the knowledge to their children.

The study will help to improve adolescence reproductive health thus minimizing the rate of promiscuity, unwanted pregnancies, abortion, sexual transmitted infection and school dropout. Possible findings from this study will widen the researcher’s knowledge on the subject matter.

To the nurses and other health care professionals it will enable them to make references and carry out more studies related to this work.

The outcome of this study will provide data for reference point in Academics and for policy makers in the area of sex education with such information, the relevant government agencies will draw up guidelines for teaching of sex education in primary and secondary schools.

Scope of the Study

This study was carried out in Ogube Ihube Okigwe in Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo state.

The study is limited to parents of children aged (10 – 19) years in Ogube Ihube Okigwe L.G.A of Imo state.

The study is to investigate the attitude of parents towards sex education to their children aged (10-19) years.

Operational Definition of Terms

• Attitude: Thoughts and feelings that encourage someone to act as if he/she likes or dislikes something.
• Parents: Father or mother from which younger ones are derived.
• Sex: Sexual activity, including specifically sexual intercourse.
• Sex education: An instruction on issues realign to human sexuality, emotional relations and responsibility.

---

Pages:  85

Category: Project

Format:  Word & PDF        

Chapters: 1-5

Material contains Table of Content, Abstract and References.

ABSTRACT

This study was conducted to assess the efficacy of patient teaching in the prevention of surgical wound breakdown amongst post-op patients in surgical ward of Madonna University Teaching Hospital, Rivers state. The specific objectives were to assess the level of knowledge of determinants of surgical wound among post operative patients; to assess the factors associated with practice of patient teaching for prevention of surgical wound breakdown in post operative patients; and to assess the role of patient teaching in managing surgical wound on the post operative patient in surgical ward of Madonna University Teaching Hospital. The study employed a quantitative descriptive survey design, using a semi-structured questionnaire. Using the Taro Yamane formula, 100 respondents were selected for the data collection and descriptive statistics of frequency and percentages were used to analyze the data. Results revealed that a high percentage of 87.2% of respondents knew the correct definition of postoperative wound infection. The results also indicate that the casusative organisms of surgical wound to include Staphylococcus aureus (28.2%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (25.2%), Escherichia coli (7.8%), and Staphylococcus epidermidis (7.1%). The factor to post operative wound infection include obesity (22.6%), underweight (85.7%), presence of preoperative cutaneous abscess, necrosis (85.7%), use of an iodized alcohol skin antiseptic agent (85%), and parietal or abdominal drainage (65%). the factors that are associated with practice of patient teaching among nurses for prevention of surgical wound breakdown in post operative patients. They include nurses’ experiences (87.2%), cultural barriers (22.6%), work place culture (85.7%), lack of time 85.7%), heavy workload (85%), insufficient staffing (85%), and complexity of patients’ condition (82%). lastly, results showed the role of patient teaching in managing surgical wound to include Patient teaching has affected my activity pattern (94.4%), Patient  teaching improves knowledge (68%), Patient  teaching has helped my nutrition knowledge (30%), Patient  teaching informs about the appropriate dietary counselors for wound control and management (92.2%), and Patient  teaching helps improve  surgical wound management (82.2%). The study concluded that Compliance to infection prevention guidelines can lead to reduce rates of infections among operative patients and make for more effective patient teaching and health outcome. It recommended that the management should be conducting quarterly evaluation of the performance of the health workers towards patient teaching and education to ensure its function is adding value to the care of post operative patients and reducing the incidence of surgical wounds infection.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

This chapter is the introductory chapter which presents the background of the study, the statement of the problem, the significance of the study, purpose of the study / broad objective, specific objectives of the study, research questions, hypothesis of the study, scope of the study and operational definition of terms.

Background to the study

Post-operative wound infection is an infection in the tissues of either an incision or organ occurring within thirty (30) days after an operation or within one year if an implant is present in the body (Tietjen et al., 2014). Abdominal surgeries, surgeries lasting over two hours, infected wounds, and the presence of multiple diagnoses in the individual present the highest risk of developing post operative wound infections. Generally, factors increasing an individual’s risk include malnutrition, decreased blood volume, lengthy post-operative wound infection, hypothermia, poor tissue perfusion, diabetes mellitus, and the use of immunosuppressive agents such as steroids (Tietijen et al., 2014).

Post-operative wound infection prolongs patient hospitalization, leading to increased usage of pharmaceutical services, more laboratory investigations and other services thereby, creating an economic burden on the health care system in developing countries bearing in mind that resources are scarce in this sector. The cost of providing these  health  services to patients that have been hospitalized longer than expected is an unforeseen cost that result in economic burden that deprive the health sector of the much needed resources that can be utilized to provide health services for  the  hard-to-reach population (Mukwato, 2016, Chanda, 2014).

Health literacy is often indicated to accommodate an individual approach by substituting the three domains of health “healthcare, disease prevention, and health promotion” with “being ill, being at risk, and staying healthy” (Sørensen, 2012). Health literacy bears significance in improving prevention and control of infectious diseases, whereas health knowledge and behavior are important components of health literacy. Given the current high incidence of Post-operative wound infection among patients, improving health literacy of patients on healthy behaviours and precautions serves as an important channel in controlling infections and adverse post-op effects. Patient teaching can improve patient knowledge on infections, risk factors and promote the development of appropriate behaviors toward infection prevention and control. Health promotion is based on health education, which is founded on health knowledge. Health education effectively slows spread of infectious diseases, and conducting health sensitization programs not only provides patients with proper knowledge and behavior toward infections but also benefits the public health (Kalinowski, 2015).

In 2003, Central Board of Health observed that the rates of nosocomial infections related to poor infection prevention practices were unacceptable. For example, a hospital accreditation survey conducted in 2002 by the Ministry of Health, reported high rates of post operative infections, showing a post operative wound infection of 30% or more among caesarean section patients. In addition, the high rate of attrition, illness and death among health workers are cited as partly contributing to the high risk of infection inherent in the health care professionals when adequate precautions are not taken. In Zambia, the first edition of Zambia Infection Prevention Guidelines was developed in 2003 by the Central Board of Health. The sole purpose of developing the Infection prevention guidelines was to provide standard guidelines for infection prevention practices applicable at all levels of the health care system in Zambia, which are technically sound and also feasible in the current environment of health care services in Zambia (CBoH, 2013). These basic guidelines such as hand washing with soap and water, and other specific procedures such as sterilization can go a long way in curbing post- operative wound infection in most of our health facilities in Africa and the world over.

Considering the economic implication on the health care system and suffering endued by patients as a result of post operative wound infection, it becomes clear that Infection prevention guidelines as recommended by the Ministry of Health and John Hopkins Information Education on Gynaecology and Obstetrics (JHPIEGO) that are cost effective are adhered to by all health care providers. It is also clear that knowledge of determinants of post operative wound infection by health care providers is important especially nursing staff who spend 24 hours nursing post operative patients in the fight against post-operative wound and infection.

Smith et al. (2012) stated that the relationship between nursing and infection control was first identified by Florence Nightingale in 1854 during the Crimean war when she served in a military hospital in Scutari in Italy. At that time, the conditions in the hospitals were deplorable. Nightingales observations in Scutari led her to believe that improving hygienic conditions would decrease the number of deaths. Kamisky (2014) believe that Nightingale championed the cause of improved hygiene, food and living conditions for the hospitalized soldiers. She curbed the hospital conditions and called for basic public health, infection control measures, cleanliness, hygiene and education about the importance of the issue. Today nurses are key players in the fight to ensure the survival of infection control practices (Smith et al., 2012). Therefore, this study seeks to assess the efficacy of patient teaching in the prevention of surgical wound breakdown amongst post-op patients in surgical ward of Madonna University Teaching Hospital in order to reduce the rate of hospital acquired infections such as post-operative wound infection.

Statement of problem

Surgical wound infections number approximately 500,000 per year among an estimated 27 million surgical procedures and account for approximately one-quarter of the estimated 2 million nosocomial infections in the United States each year (Haley RW, 2015). The incidence of infection varies from surgeon to surgeon, hospital to hospital, procedure to procedure and patient to patient. During the mid 70s, the average hospital stay in the United States doubled and the cost of hospitalization was correspondingly increased when post operative infection developed after six common operations (Green, J., 2017).

urgical wound infection is a common post operative complication. It causes significant post operative morbidity and mortality, prolongs hospital stay and adds between 10% and 20% to total hospital costs (Nandi PL, 2012). Major complications such as deep sternal infections continue to have a grave impact, increasing the duration of hospitalization as much as twenty-fold and the cost of hospitalization five-hold (Taylor GJ et al, 2013). Any surgical site infection after open heart surgery results in substantial net loss of reimbursement to the hospital compared to uninfected cases, a factor that should motivate the hospitals to minimize the incidence of post operative infections (Boyce JM, 2010). It has been shown that surgical wound infections may occur shortly after surgery or several days post operatively, and the site of infection may be limited to suture line or may extend into the operative site (Balows, 2015). Maniatis et al (2015) suggested that deep seated sepsis developing a few days after an operation and before the wound has been dressed reflect a theatre infection. Ward infections tend to be more superficial and frequently follow the dressing of wounds in the wards.

Few studies done on wound infections in Nigeria did not lay emphasis on surgical wound infections. In a cohort study done by Adebayo Osagie Shittu, Deboye Oriade and Emiola Ruth in 2014 to study wound infections in two health institutions in Ile-Ife, it was noticed that 40% of all infected wounds were caused by trauma and in most cases, located on the extremities. The bacterial isolates were polymicrobial with Staphylococcus aureus being the predominant organism (Adebayo OS, 2013). No emphasis was laid on surgical wound infections as it was considered a minor part of the study. In another study by Oguntibeju OO and Nwobu RAU in Lagos University Teaching Hospital in 2013 to determine the prevalence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in post operative wound infection, it was found that 20 of the 60 (33%) bacterial isolates were Pseudomonas aeruginosa followed by Staphylococcus aureus (21.7%) (Oguntibeju O, 2014). This study did not assess the prevalence of post operative surgical wound, infection associated factors and the outcome of the patients teaching.

The shortfalls of the above studies partly ignited an interest in a detailed study of the topic. This study sets out to assess how health teaching when utilized can help prevent infection of surgical wounds, and related factors responsible for the infections. This is considered important as the findings will help strengthen hospital infection surveillance system and to plan preventive programme to curb future occurrence considering its health and economic impact.

Objectives of the study

The general objective of this study is to assess the efficacy of patient teaching in the prevention of surgical wound breakdown amongst post-op patients in surgical ward of Madonna University Teaching Hospital. Specifically, this study seeks to;

1. Assess the level of knowledge of determinants of surgical wound among post operative patients.
2. Assess the factors associated with practice of patient teaching for prevention of surgical wound breakdown in post operative patients;
3. Assess the role of patient teaching in managing surgical wound on the post operative patient in surgical ward of Madonna University Teaching Hospital

1.4       Research questions

The following questions were formulated based on the problem identified and the objectives of the research;

1. What is the level of knowledge of determinants of surgical wound among post operative patients?
2. What factors are associated with practice of patient teaching among nurses for prevention of surgical wound breakdown in post operative patients?
3. What is the role of patient teaching in managing surgical wound on the post operative patient in surgical ward of Madonna University Teaching Hospital?

Significance of the study

This study seeks to assess the efficacy of patient teaching in the prevention of surgical wound breakdown amongst post-op patients in surgical ward of Madonna University Teaching Hospital. It also examines the factors that promote or inhibit the practice of healthy behaviours and standard precautions. Findings from the study will be used by the Health authorities, stakeholders, and the hospital management, in planning and developing adequate measures for control and intervention to improve patient teaching nursing students on the spread of communicable diseases. This study will be of most significance to the health care givers and students as it provides interventions and strategies that will result from the study findings.

Also, this research work will contribute to the existing body of literature and knowledge on the subject of standard precautions among health care givers and professionals. This study would also serve as a means of reference source for future researchers as well as educate the public on the results of the findings as well as recommendations made that will be of benefit to the health system and public health of the community and individuals.

Scope of study

This study is focused on the assessment of the efficacy of patient teaching in the prevention of surgical wound breakdown amongst post-op patients in surgical ward of Madonna University Teaching Hospital. This study was carried out in Madonna University Teaching Hospital in Rivers state as the area of study. This study covers the occurrence level of surgical wound in post operative patients in Madonna University Teaching Hospital, the Nurses level of knowledge of determinants of post operative surgical wound among patients, the factors associated with practice of patient teaching among nurses for prevention of surgical wound in post operative patients, and the role of patient teaching in managing the outcome of the surgical wound on the patient in surgical ward of Madonna University Teaching Hospital.

Operational definition of terms

For the purpose of this study, the key terms have been defined as follows:

Patient Teaching otherwise known as patient education is the process by which health professionals and others impart information to patients and their caregivers that will alter their health behaviors or improve their health status.

A surgical wound is a cut or incision in the skin that is usually made by a scalpel during surgery. A surgical wound can also be the result of a drain placed during surgery. Surgical wounds vary greatly in size. They are usually closed with sutures, but are sometimes left open to heal.

Post Operative or Post-op for short for is the care you receive after a surgical procedure. The type of postoperative care you need depends on the type of surgery you have, as well as your health history. It often includes pain management and wound care. Postoperative care begins immediately after surgery.

---

Pages:  58

Category: Project

Format:  Word & PDF

Chapters: 1-5

Material contains Table of Content, Abstract and References.

ABSTRACT

The study was carried out to investigate the attitude of caregivers in the management of urinary incontinence among the elderly in Madonna University Teaching Hospital Elele, Rivers State. The objectives of the study were to find possible solutions to incontinence among the elderly; to identify way in which the elderly may be assisted to access continence services; and to identify the attitude of care givers in management of incontinence among the elderly and correct wrong notions. To achieve this purpose the quantitative descriptive survey design was used to assess 200 respondents drawn from the study area through simple random sampling technique and the Taro Yamane sample determination formula. A questionnaire with close ended questions was used to obtain responses from the respondents. Data collected for this study were analyzed using descriptive statistics of frequency, percentages and inferential statistics of the independent t- test. 0.05 level of significance was used for the test of significance. The findings show that majority of the respondents are comfortable visiting health centers when they are sick.  120 (60%) are not comfortable.  150 (75%) prefer visiting religious centres when they are sick while 50 (25%) said no.  10.1 (50.5%) respondents agreed that there are enough health services provided while 99 (49.5%) disagreed. 20 (10%) of the respondents believed that health dispensaries are within their reach while 180 (40%) did not believe. 120 (60%) of the respondents agreed that they are neglected by caregivers whenever the visit medical centres for treatment of incontinence while 80 (40%) disagreed. 110 60%) of the peculation prefer visiting traditional healers for treatment while 90 (45%) said otherwise. 130 (65%) of the population Agreed that they are unable to utilize health care services because of its high cost while 70 (35%) disagreed.  140 (70%) of the respondents said yes to the fact that there is insufficient transportation fee to visit medical centre which 60 (30%) said No. 170 (85%) agreed that they prefer home more than medical centre when they need medical attention for incontinence while 30 (15%) disagreed. In conclusion, the study showed that age and educational status have significant effect in health care seeking behaviour among the aged group, hence there is need for massive enlightenment programs for the elderly and their caregivers as well as provision of quality and accessible healthcare services for the aged. The researcher recommends that the elderly people should be provided free, accessible and comprehensive health care in hospitals and health centres because they would utilize the health services when available, accessible and affordable.

INTRODUCTION

CHAPTER ONE

This chapter is the introductory chapter which presents the background of the study, the statement of the problem, the significance of the study, purpose of the study / broad objective, specific objectives of the study, research questions, hypothesis of the study, scope of the study and operational definition of terms.

BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

According to the international continence society (ICS), Urinary incontinence is a condition in which there is involuntary urine loss which is objectively demonstrable; it is a social or hygienic problem (Abraham, Blaivais 2012). Incontinence is an embarrassing and deliberating condition that has become a major health concern for men and women of all ages but mostly seen in the elderly worldwide. Urinary Incontinence is unintentional loss of urine, inability to hold urine in the bladder due to loss of involuntary control over the urinary sphincters resulting in the involuntary passage of urine.

Urinary incontinence is a complex international public health problem. In Sweden, more than half a million people over the age of 65 have urinary incontinence (SBU, 2013). The majority are women, but a quarter of all 80 year old men also “leak urine”. In united kingdom, it is estimated that 5-10 million women over the age of 20 have urinary incontinence (Davis C; 2012), with the majority of this population being frail women over the age of 80years who have multiple morbidities, cognitive impairments, and need extensive help (Flanagan et al., 2010). The ongoing advancements in health care, together with improved technology and socio-economic developments relating to disease and injury has resulted to significant increase in human life expectancy over the years with a consequent need for better care giving options for the increasing number of older adults population. The UN report on the world’s population prospects in 2015 suggest that by 2050 about 22% of the world’s population will be 60 years and over.

Ageing is often accompanied by chronic illnesses and continuous deterioration of mental and physical independence, which makes care giving more complex and challenging. Many older adults are frail and have co-existing disabilities and co-morbidities, conditions that can influence the clinical presentation and assessment of urinary continence, as well as patient’s responsiveness to interventions (Wagg A,W Gibson et al., 2015). Many urinary incontinent patients do not have access to knowledge of evidence based medical therapy and their quality of life suffers because of the stigma inherent, this is where care giving plays a big role.

Care giving is the act of assisting with the care and wellbeing of another person. Care giving is a common phenomenon; caregivers have the responsibility to assist older adults in performing activities and preventing elderly abuse. More generally, they play a role in the physical, emotional, psychosocial, and sometimes financial assistance of the elderly who cannot care for themselves. In present times, caregivers take the attitude that urinary incontinence is a natural consequence of ageing. So assessment and treatment is often overlooked (Resnick et al., 2016). There also seems to be lack of knowledge and compliance as to whether or not guidelines are followed appropriately by members of different levels of staff hierarchy (Lin S, et al., 2012). There are several problems associated with wit deficit in understanding the impacts of urinary incontinence problems on older adults (Tuinissen D et al., 2016)

A study of practitioners revealed weakness in commitment, time and knowledge, and raised awareness of the beliefs that comorbidity, low motivation and older person’s acceptance of the problem existence. Similar results emerged among registered nurses, where Urinary incontinence problems were seen as a symptom of aging that can be addressed using incontinence protection. However, as mentioned previously, nurses/caregivers focus was on the choice of incontinence protection instead of the investigation of underlying causes (Dingwall L & Mclafferty E, 2016). These results are also supported by earlier research in which medical diagnosis were put before urinary incontinence problems.

Care givers showed lack of understanding of problems and failed to ask older adults about urinary incontinence (Norhein A, and Guttormsen vinsnes, 2015). Care givers have different educational needs and require different levels of support depending on what level of urinary incontinence they have to deal with, whether mild, moderate, or catheter managed (Wagg A, et al., 2015). Earlier research about care givers revealed deficits in time and prioritization of tasks; staff did not take the older adults to lavatory in time. However, there was no expectation that urinary incontinence could be improved because urinary incontinence problems were seen as a normal consequence of ageing (Resnick et al., 2016).

Nursing staff who worked most closely with older adults exhibited weaknesses in recognizing urinary incontinence problems sufficiently to undertake investigative measures (Davis C  2012). Care givers fail to understand that incontinence is not just caused by ageing but also certain factors such as urinary tract infection etc. Although it is mostly caused by ageing. Deficiencies in documentation where also found, whereby documentation of bladder and bowel movements was overlooked. Instead being described as incontinence occurring but with no investigation being conducted (Mangall J et al., 2016). Incontinence in present times can be managed by instilling toilet habits based on the client’s need. This can be beneficial for maintaining health and well being (Orem D 2011).

Also the elderly could be assisted to access health care services given the important social and psychological costs of incontinence. A review of research relating to the management of urinary incontinence identified lack of qualitative research that sought the views of elderly people (Wyman JF et al., 2012). Incontinence is a pressing issue because it may result to elderly abuse, and can affect an individual’s physical, emotional, psychosocial, and sometimes financial wellbeing.

Promotion of continence forms part of the remit of community nurses are health visitors for the elderly with training, support and clinic services provided by specialist continent nurses. In the past, an assessment of continence was carried out in general practice annually as part of the over “15 years check”. However, following health policy changes, this health check is no longer a requirement for general practice and there is variation in the extent to which it is carried out by primary care staff. Recent initiatives have attempted to promote high standard of care and access to services for older people, including the promotion of best practices in continence services (Dept of health 2010, 2011).

STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

Incontinence is a global problem, it occurs in people of all ages but mostly seen in older adults. It could be either urinary or fecal, with our main focus on urinary, this study is important to find out the attitude of caregivers managing incontinent patients, the causes of incontinence, possible solutions, and better management of incontinence 

OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

The main purpose of this study is to investigate the attitude of caregivers in the management of urinary incontinence among the elderly in Madonna University Teaching Hospital Elele, Rivers State. Specifically, the following objectives will guide the study;

1. To find possible solutions to incontinence among the elderly
2. To identify way in which the elderly may be assisted to access continence services.
3. To identify the attitude of care givers in management of incontinence among the elderly and correct wrong notions.

RESEARCH QUESTIONS

The following questions were formulated to guide the study based on the research objectives;

1. How can the elderly be assisted to access continence services?
2. How do care givers behave towards the elderly incontinent individuals?
3. What are the possible solutions to incontinence among the elderly?

SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The findings of this study will be of great use to the elderly, caregivers and the general public.  To the elderly, this study will be of good use to the elderly people having continence problems leading to adverse effects not only on their health but also on their psychosocial life. To the Nurses/care givers, it will also help caregivers to promote high standards of care, of the elderly with training and support and promoting best practices in continence services. Also, to the public, the result obtained from this study will help the public prevent elderly abuse and also assist the elderly in seeking continence services. Finally, information gathered from this study will serve as a source of literature and guide for future research and as well serve as empirical reference for further studies.

SCOPE OF THE STUDY

This study is delimited to the attitude of caregivers and supportive care in the management of incontinence among the elderly. Madonna University teaching Hospital will be used as the study area, and elderly patients suffering from urinary incontinence will be used as the respondents. This study covered variables that include care givers attitude to urinary incontinence among the elderly, role of caregivers in treatment of urinary incontinence among the elderly, and practice of the aged persons towards healthy lifestyle for management of incontinence.

OPERATIONAL DEFINITION OF TERMS

For the purpose of this study, the key terms have been defined as follows:

Urinary Incontinence: is unintentional loss of urine, inability to hold urine in the bladder due to loss of control over the urinary sphincters resulting in the involuntary passage of urine.

Care giving: Is the act of assisting with the care and wellbeing of another person.

Care giver: Is an unpaid or paid member of person’s social network who helps them with activities of daily living.

---

Pages:  58

Category: Project

Format:  Word & PDF

Chapters: 1-5

Material contains Table of Content, Abstract and References.