COLLEGE OF MEDICAL SCIENCE

Hypertension remains a leading cardiovascular risk factor among elderly populations worldwide, with age-related physiological changes, lifestyle behaviors, and socio- demographic characteristics serving as critical determinants. This study assessed age-related factors in the development of hypertension among elderly patients attending the Consultant Out-Patient Department at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Edo State, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed involving 191 elderly patients diagnosed with hypertension. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics with mean scores to determine the level of influence of various factors. The study revealed high influence across all three dimensions examined. Lifestyle risk factors demonstrated a grand mean of 3.25, with high-salt diet consumption showing the strongest impact. Socio-demographic factors yielded a grand mean of 3.18, with low-income levels and limited healthcare access being most influential. Age-related factors showed a grand mean of 3.27, with vascular changes due to advancing age scoring highest at 3.38. The majority of respondents were females aged 65-69 years, predominantly married, with primary or secondary education, having lived with hypertension for one to five years. Multiple interacting factors contribute significantly to hypertension development among elderly patients, with age-related physiological changes, lifestyle behaviors, and socioeconomic status all playing crucial roles. Comprehensive, age-appropriate interventions addressing these multifaceted determinants are essential for effective hypertension prevention and management in elderly populations.

Workplace abuse of nurses by patients and their relatives is a growing concern, affecting job performance, mental health, and overall well-being. This study assessed the factors influencing the abuse of nurses at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Ugbowo, Benin City. The study aimed to determine the prevalence, types, and contributing factors of abuse
experienced by nurses. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 258 nurses selected through a stratified sampling technique. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data, and 251 responses were deemed valid, giving a response rate of 97.2%. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26.0, with results presented in tables and figures. The study found that verbal abuse was the most common form of abuse, experienced by 71% of respondents. Other reported forms of abuse included emotional distress (59%), workplace bullying (53%), and rude or dismissive behavior (66%). Physical assault (37%), unwanted sexual harassment (42%), and stalking (31%) were less frequently reported. Factors contributing to abuse included patient frustration due to delayed medical attention (mean = 3.1), lack of understanding of hospital policies (mean = 3.0), and emotional distress of patient relatives (mean = 3.2). Patients with psychiatric conditions, those under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and those with severe pain were more likely to abuse nurses. Abuse of nurses in UBTH is prevalent, with verbal and emotional abuse being the most reported. Factors such as patient frustration, unrealistic expectations, and poor communication contribute to these incidents. There is a need for hospital management to implement stricter policies against abuse, provide conflict resolution training for nurses, and improve communication between healthcare workers and patients’ relatives. Additionally, security measures should be strengthened to ensure a safer work environment for nurses.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major global public health issue, affecting millions of individuals worldwide. It is characterized by a progressive loss of kidney function, often leading to end-stage renal disease (ESRD), which requires renal replacement
therapy, such as dialysis or kidney transplantation (Tanriover et al., 2022). Among these treatment options, dialysis remains the most common and accessible intervention for patients who do not have immediate access to transplantation(Chaudhry et al., 2022). However, undergoing dialysis is not only a physically demanding process but also presents significant psychosocial challenges, which can impact the overall well-being and quality of life of patients (Lateef, 2022). Dialysis patients experience a range of psychological and social challenges, including depression, anxiety, social isolation, financial burden, and role limitations within their families and communities (Hansen et al., 2021). Studies have shown that the prevalence of depression among patients undergoing dialysis is significantly higher than in the general population (Alshelleh et al., 2022). The chronic nature of the disease, coupled with the stringent treatment regimen and dietary restrictions, often leads to emotional distress, which may further complicate adherence to treatment and overall prognosis (Fraile-Martinez et al., 2022). Socially, dialysis patients may struggle with maintaining employment, family roles, and social relationships. The time-consuming nature of dialysis sessions, which typically occur multiple times a week, often limits the ability of patients to work or engage in social activities (Whitman et al., 2021)