Patients

AN EXPLORATORY STUDY OF THE PATIENTS PERCEPTION OF COMFORT AND ANXIETY LEVELS DURING A COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY (CT) PROCEDURE

Year of Publication
Publication Type
Abstract
Patient-centered care is increasingly recognized as a critical determinant of quality in diagnostic imaging. Communication between radiographers and patients during computed tomography (CT) procedures plays a central role in shaping psychological responses, particularly in relation to comfort and anxiety. Despite its importance, limited evidence exists in the Nigerian context on how radiographer communication influences patient experience. This study therefore assessed the relationship between radiographer communication and patients’ psychological responses during CT examinations. This descriptive cross-sectional survey employed a structured questionnaire to collect data from 97 patients undergoing CT procedures. A purposive sampling technique was used to recruit participants. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27.0, employing descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests of association. Findings were presented in frequency tables, percentages, and statistical outputs at a significance level of p < 0.05. The findings revealed that 63.9% of respondents were first-time CT patients, with the majority reporting heightened anxiety before, during, and after the procedure. While 79.3% acknowledged that radiographers provided clear procedural explanations, only 63.9% felt their anxiety was reduced by the communication received. Chi-square analysis showed no statistically significant association between radiographer communication and psychological responses of comfort and anxiety (χ² = 9.394, df = 1, p = 0.659). Although radiographer communication was effective in providing technical explanations, it was less effective in addressing patients’ emotional needs. This underscores a training gap in therapeutic communication and psychological support within radiography practice. The study recommends integrating patient psychology, therapeutic communication, and anxiety management modules into radiography curricula, alongside continuing professional development programs. Healthcare facilities should prioritize staff-patient interaction
Supervisor(s)
co-supervisor

ASSESSMENT OF NURSES’ BURNOUT AND ITS PERCEIVED IMPACT ON PATIENTS’ CARE IN A TERTIARY HEALTH INSTITUTION

Author(s)
Year of Publication
Publication Type
Abstract
Burnout among nurses is a growing concern in healthcare systems worldwide due to its adverse implications on both professional well-being and quality of patient care. This study aimed to assess the level of burnout among nurses and its perceived impact on patient care at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was employed, and a total of 222 registered nurses working across various clinical units were selected using a stratified random sampling technique to ensure equitable representation. Data were collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire and analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26.0. Out of 222 distributed questionnaires, 216 were valid and analyzed, yielding a high response rate of 97.3%. Results revealed that the majority of the respondents were female (81.9%) and within the age group of 30–39 years (33.3%). Most had a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing (61.1%) and 6–10 years of post-qualification experience (37.0%). The findings indicated a high level of burnout among nurses, with a grand mean score of 3.2 across various burnout indicators. Additionally, the perceived impact of burnout on patient care was notably high, with a grand mean score of 3.3. Notable areas affected by burnout included emotional exhaustion, reduced empathy, communication difficulties, and decreased adherence to patient safety protocols. In conclusion, the study demonstrates that burnout is prevalent among nurses at UBTH and significantly affects the quality of patient care delivered. It underscores the need for organizational and psychological interventions to mitigate burnout and enhance the well-being of nurses. The study management training, and the establishment of mental health support systems to help reduce burnout and improve patient care outcomes.
Supervisor(s)
co-supervisor