DEPARTMENT OF MEDICAL SURGICAL NURSING

The objectives of this study were to determine the level of knowledge of standard precautions among nurses, assess their level of adherence to standard precautionary practices, and examine the relationship between knowledge and adherence among nurses in the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Benin City. A descriptive cross-sectional research design was adopted for the study. Data were collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire distributed to 272 nurses, out of which 241 were properly completed and analyzed, representing a response rate of 88.6%. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including frequencies, percentages, means, and the chi-square test.The findings revealed that a majority of the respondents (88%) demonstrated good knowledge of standard precautions, while 90% reported high adherence to standard precautionary practices. The chi-square test result (χ² = 0.2935, df = 1, p = 0.20) indicated no statistically significant relationship between nurses’ knowledge and adherence to standard precautions. The study also identified positive influencing factors such as the availability of personal protective equipment (PPE), functional hand hygiene facilities, institutional policies, regular infection prevention and control (IPC) training, and supervision. Conversely, high workload and emergency situations were reported as major barriers to consistent adherence. It was concluded that although nurses at UBTH possess adequate knowledge and good adherence to standard precautions, continuous training, adequate staffing, and sustained provision of resources are necessary to maintain effective infection prevention practices

Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is a vital public health strategy recommended for the first six months of life, providing optimal nutrition and immunity for infants. Despite its benefits, many nursing mothers face challenges that hinder its effective practice. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and practice of exclusive breastfeeding among nursing mothers attending the Infant Welfare Clinic at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Benin City, Edo State. A descriptive cross-sectional research design was employed, involving 127 nursing mothers selected through a convenience sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire and analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26.0. Descriptive and inferential statistics were utilized to summarize and interpret the data. The findings revealed that a majority of the respondents demonstrated good knowledge of exclusive breastfeeding, with 75.6% correctly identifying the recommended six-month duration. However, while 59.1% practiced exclusive breastfeeding, a notable proportion discontinued before six months due to factors such as return to work, lack of family support, and perceived insufficient breast milk. Significant associations were found between knowledge and practice levels, as well as between exclusive breastfeeding practice and socio-demographic variables such as age and parity. The study concluded that although knowledge of exclusive breastfeeding among mothers was generally high, this did not always translate into optimal practice. Gaps remain due to socio-cultural and economic challenges. Based on the findings, it is recommended that more targeted health education and breastfeeding support programs be implemented, especially those addressing workplace support and family involvement. Policymakers should also consider extending maternity leave and promoting breastfeeding-friendly environments in public and private sectors to improve exclusive breastfeeding rates. This study provides useful insights for healthcare providers and stakeholders involved in maternal and child health promotion.

Kidney disease is increasingly linked to lifestyle choices such as poor diet, physical inactivity, and inadequate hydration. This study assessed the awareness of the perceived impact of lifestyle on the incidence of kidney disease among Faculty of Arts students in a tertiary educational institution in Benin City. A cross-sectional descriptive research design was adopted, involving 329 students selected through a multi-stage stratified random sampling technique from the Departments of English and Literature (34%) and History and International Studies (66%). Data were collected using a structured questionnaire validated for reliability (Cronbach’s α = 0.701)and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics with SPSS. The findings revealed that
85.8% of respondents were aware that lifestyle choices influence kidney disease risk, while 81.2% recognized the importance of hydration. However, only 4.2% reported learning about kidney health in their studies. Regarding lifestyle habits, 83.9% limited processed food intake, 80% maintained adequate hydration, but only 53.5% exercised regularly. A majority (82.4%)believed kidney disease is preventable through healthy lifestyles, yet just 50.1% possessed adequate knowledge of its risk factors. Additionally, 83.6% supported more health campaigns, and 72.4% agreed kidney health education should be part of theuniversity curriculum. Chi- square tests indicated significant relationships between awareness of lifestyle impact and both gender (χ² =8.088, p = 0.044) and age (χ² = 84.097, p = 0.000). Overall, 64.4% were willing to attend kidney health seminars, and 85.7% desired more information. The study concludes that while awareness of lifestyle-related kidney health is generally positive, knowledge gaps persist, underscoring the need for targeted health education and inclusion of kidney health topics in tertiary curricula.

This study aimed to assess the knowledge and attitude towards research conduct among undergraduate nursing students at the University of Benin, Benin City. A total of 282 students participated in the study, which employed a descriptive cross-sectional design using stratified random sampling. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire, and both descriptive and inferential statistics were used for analysis, including chi-square tests at a 0.05 significance level. The results revealed that while 45.0% of students demonstrated good knowledge of research conduct, a combined 55.0% exhibited fair to poor knowledge. In terms of attitude, 73.0% showed a positive disposition toward research engagement, while 27.0% expressed negative attitudes. Notable barriers identified included limited access to research materials (76.3%), time constraints (76.9%), and a lack of mentorship (78.0%). Statistical analysis indicated a significant positive association between research knowledge and attitudes (p < 0.001). Students with greater knowledge were more likely to express positive attitudes toward research. The study recommends strengthening the research component of the nursing curriculum, expanding access to research tools and databases, and implementing structured mentorship initiatives. Creating supportive research environments is also essential to promote active participation. These findings offer valuable insights for nursing educators and academic institutions seeking to cultivate a robust research culture among undergraduate nursing students.

The dietary habits of students can have a profound impact on their academic performance, particularly in demanding fields such as nursing. With the growing awareness of nutrition's rolein cognitive function and academic success, this study examined the perceived influenceofdietary habits on the academic performance among nursing students at the University of Benin. The purpose of the study was to assess the dietary patterns of nursing students and determinehow these habits relate to their academic performance. A descriptive cross-sectional designwasadopted. The population comprised nursing students from 200 to 500 level, excluding 100level students. Data were collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire, and analyzedusing descriptive and inferential statistics. The results showed that the majority of respondents, 242 (85.5%), had good dietary habits, while 40 (14.2%) reported poor dietary habits. In termsofacademic performance, 269 (95.4%) had good performance and only 13 (4.6%) hadpoorperformance. A statistically significant association was observed between dietary habits andacademic performance (p < 0.001), indicating that students with better dietary habits weremorelikely to perform well academically.In conclusion, the study highlights a positive relationshipbetween healthy dietary habits and academic success among nursing students. It is recommendedthat nutrition education and awareness be incorporated into student support programs to promotebetter eating habits and, by extension, improve academic outcomes

Diphtheria remains a serious public health concern, particularly in developing countries, wherehealthcare systems may face resource and training limitations. Nurses play a critical role intheearly recognition, management, and prevention of diphtheria outbreaks. This study wasadescriptive cross-sectional survey conducted to assess the knowledge and management practicesregarding diphtheria among nurses at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), BeninCity, Nigeria. A total of 236 questionnaires were distributed using a stratified samplingtechnique to ensure fair representation across departments. Out of these, 231 were properlyfilled and valid for data analysis, giving a response rate of 97.8%. Data were analyzed usingtheStatistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26.0. The findings revealed that 82%demonstrated good knowledge, while 83% showed good knowledge of diphtheria management. Asignificant proportion (82.0%) of the respondents had a positive attitude toward diphtheriamanagement, whereas 18% exhibited negative or indif erent attitudes. However, several challenges were identified. Notably, 70.6% of the nurses reported inadequate availabilityof personal protective equipment (PPE), 80.1% cited limited access to diphtheria antitoxin, 80.1%indicated insuf icient training opportunities, and 69.7% highlighted the absence of clearmanagement protocols as a major obstacle to ef ective care. In conclusion, while the majorityof nurses held a positive outlook toward diphtheria management, gaps in knowledge and numeroussystemic challenges were evident. These issues may hinder the ef ective response to diphtheriaoutbreaks and impact patient outcomes. It is therefore recommended that regular in-servicetraining be provided to update and reinforce nurses’ knowledge and skills. Additionally, improving access to essential supplies such as PPE and antitoxins, along with the development and implementation of clear institutional protocols, is essential for enhancing nurses’ capacityto manage diphtheria ef ectively

This study examined the influence of stress on the academic performance of undergraduate nursing students at the University of Benin. Using a cross-sectional survey design, data were collected from 282 students via structured questionnaires. Results showed that academic workload and clinical responsibilities were major stressors, with 44.9% and 76.4% of students respectively reporting significant stress related to these areas. While 76.4% found peer and instructor support beneficial for managing stress, 40.6% indicated limited access to coping resources. Stress was found to negatively impact concentration, motivation, examination performance, and information retention among many students. Despite these challenges, students commonly employed coping strategies such as listening to music, social interaction, and spiritual practices. The majority endorsed interventions including time management workshops, peer support groups, and counselling services to mitigate stress. Recommendations focus on implementing structured support systems and stress management programs to enhance academic outcomes and overall well-being, highlighting the importance of continuous evaluation to improve nursing education.

Hypertension is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally. In Nigeria, poor self-carepractices remain a challenge, often influenced by sociocultural beliefs and determinants. As such, this study assessed the sociocultural determinants of self-care practices among patients with hypertension attending the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Benin City, EdoState. A Descriptive cross-sectional study was used in this study, of which data were collectedfrom 230 hypertensive patients through structured questionnaires. The result showed thatmajority of participants were female (53%) with a mean age of 49 years. With a high prevalence of senior secondary education (24%), majority were either retired or employed in the private sector, with an average monthly income of ₦83,258.24. In addition, adherence to medication (x.18) was high, whereas practices such as home blood pressure monitoring ( x= 2.46) and dietary management ( x2.45) showed moderate adherence. Furthermore, common socio- cultural factors sinfluencing self-care practices included high medication costs (x= 3.45), family support (x= 3.43), religious beliefs (x3.25), spiritual beliefs (x= 3.11), and pressure to adhere to cultural food customs which could affect dietary adherene (x= 3.10). Multivariate logistic regression further indicated that longer duration of hypertension significantly increased adherence odds (OR=8.606, 95% CI: 1.914–38.693, p=0.005) with rural residents (OR=2.164, 95% CI: 1.068–4.385, p=0.032) being more adherent. More so, perceived stigma increased the likelihood of adherence (OR=2.595, 95% CI: 1.065–148.987, p=0.044). Hence, the study recommended developing culturally sensitive programs to destigmatize hypertension and dispel misconceptions about traditional/spiritual practices in relation to treatment

The relationship between academic performance and clinical practice is a crucial area of focus in nursing education. Academic performance serves as a foundation for the theoretical knowledge required in clinical practice, while clinical experiences provide opportunities to apply this knowledge in real-world healthcare setting. However, bridging the gap between academic and clinical environments remains a significant challenge for nursing students globally. Several factors influence nursing students' academic performance, including stress, satisfaction with learning environments, and access to educational resources. This study assessed evaluated the influence of academic performance on clinical practice of nursing student in a tertiary institution in Benin City. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 253 nursing students from 300-500 level in the University of Benin, using structured questionnaires, and data were analyzed with descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings revealed that 70.8% of respondents agreed that academic performance significantly impacted clinical practice outcomes. The factors influencing academic performance and clinical practice included access to learning resources (85.9%), faculty support (65.2%), peer collaboration (90.9%), and personal factors like time management and self-discipline (70.0%). Challenges faced by students included inadequate clinical supervision (58.2%), the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-life clinical scenarios (34.5%), and limited exposure to diverse clinical cases (39.2%). The study confirmed a positive relationship between academic performance and clinical competence. The hypothesis that there is no significant relationship between the level of impact of academic performance on clinical practice outcomes and the challenges faced by nursing students was not supported, hence indicating a significant relationship (p=0.03). Based on these findings, it is recommended that nursing institutions improve clinical supervision, provide more practical opportunities, and enhance resources to support students in applying theoretical knowledge efectively in clinical setting

HAND HYGIENE IS A CRITICAL COMPONENT OF INFECTION PREVENTION AND CONTROL, PARTICULARLY AMONG HEALTHCARE WORKERS. THE WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION (WHO) INTRODUCED THE “5 MOMENTS FOR HAND HYGIENE” (MOHH) TO REDUCE HEALTHCARE-ASSOCIATED INFECTIONS (HAIS) AND PROMOTE PATIENT SAFETY. THIS STUDY ASSESSED THE KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICE OF THE WHO 5 MOHH AMONG NURSE-MIDWIVES IN SELECTED WARDS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF BENIN TEACHING HOSPITAL (UBTH), BENIN CITY, NIGERIA. A DESCRIPTIVE CROSS-SECTIONAL DESIGN WAS EMPLOYED, USING A STRUCTURED SELF-ADMINISTERED QUESTIONNAIRE. DATA WERE COLLECTED FROM 161 NURSE-MIDWIVES AND ANALYZED USING SPSS VERSION 23. FINDINGS SHOWED THAT 52.2% OF RESPONDENTS HAD GOOD KNOWLEDGE, 31.7% HAD FAIR KNOWLEDGE, AND 16.1% HAD POOR KNOWLEDGE OF THE MOHH. REGARDING PRACTICE, THE HIGHEST COMPLIANCE WAS SEEN IN MOMENT 3 (AFTER BODY FLUID EXPOSURE/RISK) AND MOMENT 4 (AFTER TOUCHING A PATIENT), WHILE MOMENTS 1 (BEFORE TOUCHING A PATIENT) AND 2 (BEFORE ASEPTIC PROCEDURES) HAD THE LOWEST ADHERENCE RATES. ADDITIONALLY, 60.2% OF RESPONDENTS BELIEVED HAND HYGIENE IS NOT NECESSARY IF GLOVES ARE WORN, AND 85.7% INCORRECTLY THOUGHT THAT HYGIENE COULD BE SKIPPED AT MOMENT 1 IF IT WAS RECENTLY PERFORMED AT MOMENT 5. THESTUDY CONCLUDES THAT WHILE GENERAL AWARENESS OF HAND HYGIENE IS
HIGH AMONG NURSE-MIDWIVES, THERE ARE SIGNIFICANT DEFICIENCIES IN BOTH SPECIFIC KNOWLEDGE AND CONSISTENT PRACTICE OF THE WHO 5 MOHH. STRENGTHENING TRAINING PROGRAMS, IMPROVING SUPPLY OF HYGIENE MATERIALS, AND PROMOTING SUPPORTIVE SUPERVISION ARE RECOMMENDED TO BRIDGE THESE GAPS AND IMPROVE INFECTION CONTROL PRACTICES.