BACHELOR OF NURSING SCIENCE

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are illnesses primarily spread through sexual contact. They include treatable infections such as gonorrhea, syphilis, and chlamydia, as well as incurable but manageable conditions like HIV, herpes simplex virus, human papillomavirus (HPV), and hepatitis B. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge and perception of STIs among adolescents in secondary schools within Ekosodin community, Benin City, Edo State. A descriptive research design was adopted, involving 525 senior secondary students from four public schools, with a sample size of 397 selected using convenience sampling. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire, validated by the supervisor, and tested for reliability using the test-retest method. Analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics, including frequency counts and percentages, with results presented in tables. Findings revealed that most adolescents (78.36%) were aware of STIs, and a significant proportion (85.48%) recognized that risky sexual behaviors increase vulnerability to infections, leading to serious health consequences. Based on these outcomes, it is recommended that STI education be integrated into school curricula and that awareness campaigns through media be strengthened.

This study investigated the perceived influence of paucity of nurses on quality of care among patients in a tertiary health institution in Benin City, Edo State. The study's objectives are to assess nursing care quality, patients' perceptions of the impact of a shortage of nurses on nursing care quality, and suggestions for improving nursing careat
the University of Benin teaching hospital in Benin. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was used in the study. There were 243 patients in the medical surgical unit that made up the study population. Convenience sampling was used to choose a sample size of 151 respondents for the investigation. A well-structured questionnaire served as the data gathering tool. The research supervisor verified the instrument. To confirm the instrument's reliability, a test-retest procedure was used. Data was examined using descriptive statistics (frequency, percentages, mean score, and standard deviation) and inferential statistics (ANOVA) to assess study hypotheses at a p-value of <0.05. The findings reveal that patients have a positive opinion that standards/protocols for patient safety are in place, patients' rights are protected, and mistakes are immediately reported and rectified. It was also revealed that patients judged certain elements to have a beneficial impact on the quality of nursing care. This includes opportunities for nursing workers to advance and develop professionally. It was also revealed that providing enough facilities and equipment, employing nurses, enhancing nurses' well-being and quality, and encouraging nurses to attend update courses all help to improve the quality of nursing care. Based on the findings, it was concluded and recommended among others that Government at all levels; federal and state and local government should ensure that medical facilities under their care are adequately starfed and equipped in order to ensure quality nursing care.

AI in healthcare has gained significant momentum in recent years, revolutionizing the delivery of medical services and transforming patient care processes across various specialties. Nursing, as a fundamental pillar of healthcare, is increasingly experiencing the impact of AI technologies, which range from decision support systems, robotics, predictive analytics, to personalized patient care applications. However, the successful adoption and optimal utilization of AI in nursing practice depend largely on nurses' knowledge, perceptions, and the roles they assume in its implementation. The aim of this study is to provide insights into the current knowledge and perceptions of nurses regarding AI, identifying potential gaps that could hinder effective practice. Understanding these gaps will help healthcare administrators and policy-makers design targeted interventions. This study employs a descriptive cross-sectional research design to investigate knowledge and perception of AI among nurses at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH). A total of 257 participants were chosen using a stratified random sampling technique. A well self-structured questionnaire was used to access the knowledge, perception and roles of nurses as regards the use of AI among nurses in UBTH. The result shows, 74.3% of the respondents exhibiting correct knowledge of AI in comparison with the McDonald’s scale indicates a moderate level of knowledge regarding AI. Also with a total mean score of 2.8, the study reveals that the respondents have a good perception of AI. Of the 257 respondents, 196 (76.3%) of the respondents strongly agreed that nurses should be involved in the planning and implementation of AI systems, 15(5.8%) disagreed, 31(12.1%) agreed while 15(5.8%) strongly disagreed. The mean response of the respondents is 2.53 which is greater than the average of 2.50 for a 4-point Likert scale, hence indicating the respondents generally agree that Nurses should be involved in the planning and implementation of AI systems. This study thus concluded that there is a fair knowledge, the respondents have good perception of AI and involving in the planning and implementation of AI systems are some of the roles of nurses in the use of AI

Emotional intelligence and critical thinking disposition are essential competencies required for effective nursing education and professional practice. This study examined the correlation between emotional intelligence and critical thinking disposition among nursing students at the University of Benin, Benin City, Edo State. A cross-sectional correlational design was adopted, and a total of 255 students from 200 to 500 levels were selected using a stratified random sampling technique. Data were collected using validated structured questionnaires measuring emotional intelligence and critical thinking disposition. Analysis was conducted using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26.0. Descriptive statistics such as frequencies, percentages, and means were used, while Pearson Product Moment Correlation served as the inferential statistical tool. Findings showed that the majority of participants were female (77.6%), with a mean age of 21.6 ± 3.26 years, and most respondents (94.1%) had a GPA of 3.0 and above. Emotional intelligence levels were generally high, with 52.16% of respondents scoring in the high category, 36.08% in the moderate category, and 11.76% in the low category. The overall mean emotional intelligence score was 55.9 ± 12.7. Critical thinking disposition also ranked high among respondents, with 52.55% classified as high, 33.73% moderate, and 13.73% low. The overall mean score for critical thinking disposition was 117.3 ± 33.2. Correlation analysis revealed statistically significant positive relationships between all dimensions of emotional intelligence and critical thinking disposition, with correlation coefficients ranging from r = +0.185 to r = +0.212 (p < 0.01). Overall emotional intelligence also showed a weak but significant positive correlation with critical thinking disposition (r = +0.210; p = 0.003), leading to the rejection of the null hypothesis. The study concludes that higher emotional intelligence is associated with a stronger disposition toward critical thinking among nursing students, underscoring the need for educational strategies that promote both emotional and cognitive development within nursing training.

Background: Effective nursing leadership is pivotal in healthcare, significantly influencing team dynamics, job satisfaction, and the quality of patient care. The leadership styles adopted by nurse managers can either enhance or impede team performance, yet the specific dynamics within the context of Nigerian tertiary hospitals remain underexplored. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate leadership styles in nursing and their impact on team performance among nurses at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Benin City. Methods: A correlational survey design was employed, with a sample of 272 nurses selected from a population of 850 using stratified and convenience sampling. Data were collected using a validated, self-structured questionnaire and analyzed with descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages) and inferential statistics (Chi-square test) via SPSS version 25. Results: The findings revealed that transactional (50.8%) and laissez-faire (46.0%) leadership styles were predominant among nurse managers, with minimal evidence of transformational leadership. These styles were perceived negatively and were significantly associated with low team performance, including confusion (54.4%) and poor coordination (51.1%). Key factors influencing leadership style adoption included personal traits (69.5%), availability of resources (65.1%), and the nature of the clinical unit (62.9%). A significant relationship was found between leadership styles and team performance (p=0.026). Conclusion: The study concludes that the prevalent leadership styles at UBTH are largely ineffective, adversely affecting team cohesion and performance. There is a critical need for leadership development programs focused on transformational and participatory approaches to foster a more supportive and efficient work environment for nurses

Despite the availability and effectiveness of vasectomy as a permanent method of male contraception, its acceptance remains low in many developing countries, including Nigeria. Misconceptions, cultural norms, and religious beliefs significantly hinder its uptake. This study assessed the knowledge, attitude, and acceptance of vasectomy among male staff at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Benin City. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was employed. A stratified random sampling technique was used to select 278 male staff across different departments of UBTH. Data were collected using a structured, pretested questionnaire and analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26.0. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to interpret the results. The study revealed that only 41% of respondents had good knowledge of vasectomy, with a grand mean score of 1.4, indicating a generally poor understanding. Attitudes were predominantly negative, with 56% expressing unfavourable views and a mean attitude score of 2.1. Acceptance of vasectomy was also low, as only 38% indicated willingness to consider the procedure. Cultural and religious beliefs, fear of complications, perceived threats to masculinity, and misinformation about the procedure were identified as major barriers to acceptance. Despite working in a healthcare setting, many respondents held misconceptions about vasectomy’s effects on sexual performance and health. The study found poor knowledge, negative attitudes, and low acceptance of vasectomy among male staff at UBTH. These findings underscore the persistence of cultural, religious, and psychological barriers even within educated, medically-inclined populations. Targeted health education interventions are urgently needed to dispel myths, address cultural concerns, and promote accurate information about vasectomy among healthcare workers. Empowering male staff with correct knowledge could enhance their role as advocates for male involvement in family planning

This study aimed to assess the QoL and the level of dependency in Activities of Daily Living(ADL)among orthopedic patients. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted on 88orthopedicpatients. Data were collected using a WHOQOL-BREF instrument and Barthel index. Themeanscores for individual items and the overall Grand Means were calculated for analysis. Theassessment revealed an overall moderate level of dependency in self-care practice(Grand Mean=2.01 on a 3-point scale, where 2.0 is the cut-of for moderate). Patients exhibitedthe highest dependency for tasks like Feeding and Bowel control (Mean=2.1), followedcloselybybathing, grooming, and transfers (Mean=2.0). The overall QoL was also rated as moderate(Grand Mean=3.08 on a 5-point scale). Patients demonstrated strong psychological resilience,with the highest score recorded for acceptance of bodily appearance (Mean=3.22). Conversely, QoL was significantly eroded by psychological and social burdens, with the lowest scores observed for negative feelings (anxiety, depression) (Mean=2.85) and satisfaction with sexlife(Mean=2.93). Furthermore, functional limitations regarding mobility (Mean=2.95) and pain interference (Mean=2.98) were identified as key physical constraints. Orthopedic patients maintain a moderate QoL despite significant emotional challenges and a reliance on assistance for daily needs. Clinical interventions must adopt a holistic approach, prioritising mental health support to address anxiety and depression, alongside specialized functional support for highly dependent tasks like feeding and bowel care to maximize patient independence. Keywords: perceived influence, self-care, practices, quality of life, patients, orthopaedic condition

Environmental sanitation and personal hygiene are fundamental pillars of public health, influencing the well-being and productivity of individuals, especially in academic settingslike universities. This study assessed the knowledge and attitude of female students at theUniversity of Benin towards these crucial aspects of health, with the aimof understandingtheir knowledge, attitude and factors regarding hygiene practices and sanitation. Atotal of 264 female students participated in this research, which utilized a structured questionnaireto gather data on their knowledge, attitudes, and practices. The results revealed that while(53%) students generally possessed fair knowledge about sanitation and hygiene, therewere notable gaps in specific areas, such as menstrual hygiene and waste disposal practicesby (28.7%). Furthermore, despite recognizing the importance of personal hygiene, (27%)students' practices were often influenced by various socio-cultural and environmental factors, creating a gap between awareness and actual behavior. The researcher suggests theneed for targeted health education programs, better sanitation facilities, and aholisticapproach to improving hygiene practices on campus. The findings provide valuable insightsfor healthcare professionals, particularly nurses, to develop interventions aimedat enhancing students' health literacy and improving their overall hygiene practices, thuscontributing to a cleaner and healthier campus environment.

Teenage pregnancy remains a major public health concern in Nigeria, contributing to school dropout, maternal and infant morbidity, and socio-economic challenges. This study aimed to assess the awareness and contributing factors of teenage pregnancy among secondary school students in a local government area of Edo State. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was employed. Simple random sampling was used to select 271 participants from two secondary schools in Ovia North East Local Government Area. A structured questionnaire was distributed, and 266 were properly filled and valid for analysis, yielding a response rate of 98.1%. Data were analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26.0. Descriptive statistics summarized socio-demographic characteristics, prevalence, awareness, and contributing factors of teenage pregnancy. Chi-square tests were conducted to assess the relationship between the level of awareness of sex education and the prevalence of teenage pregnancy. The study revealed a self-reported teenage pregnancy prevalence of 6.8%, with higher rates among older adolescents (17–19 years). Approximately 70% of students demonstrated good awareness of sex education and reproductive health, though gaps and misconceptions persisted regarding contraception and reproductive health components. Multiple factors were identified as contributing to teenage pregnancy, including poverty, peer influence, lack of parental care, broken homes, low self-confidence, early marriage, social media exposure, and cultural or religious restrictions. A significant association was found between awareness of sex education and teenage pregnancy awareness (χ² = 6.765, p = 0.01). Teenage pregnancy among secondary school students in the study area is influenced by a combination of socio-demographic, familial, economic, psychological, and cultural factors, while adequate awareness of sex education serves as a protective factor. Comprehensive sex education programs, parental and community engagement, targeted interventions for vulnerable adolescents, and accessible youth-friendly reproductive health services are recommended to reduce the incidence of teenage pregnancy and promote adolescent well-being.

This study examined the economic burden of Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) and the payment coping mechanisms of patients receiving care at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Benin City, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was employed, targeting sickle cell patients who attended the outpatient clinic and wards of UBTH. A sample size of 100 respondents was selected using simplerandom sampling from an estimated population of 118 patients. Data were collected using a structured, pretested questionnaire covering socio-demographic
characteristics, direct and indirect medical costs, socioeconomic cost distribution, and payment coping strategies. Validity of the instrument was ensured through expert review, and reliability was established via a test-retest method yielding a reliability coefficient of 0.85. Descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentages, means, and standard deviation were used to analyze the data. Direct costs were calculated using the bottom-up approach, while indirect costs were assessed through the human capital approach. Inferential analysis was done using ANOVA and Chi-square tests to determine significant associations, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Ethical approval was obtained, and patient confidentiality and voluntary participation were assured. The findings highlight the substantial economic burden SCD imposes on patients and the diverse strategies employed to cope with payment demands,
providing a basis for policy recommendations aimed at improving access to care and financial protection for individuals living with SCD.