A. EHWARIEME

This study evaluates wound care knowledge and practices Among nurses in tertiary health facilities in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 200 nurses to assess the wound care practices and identify associated factors among nurses in selected tertiary hospitals in Benin City, through a structured questionnaire focusing on Their demographic characteristics, adherence to established wound care protocols, and the factors influencing their practices. The findings revealed that the nursing workforce was
predominantly female (71.0%), with a mean age of 33 years and a significant proportion (52.5%) having less than five years of experience. Adherence to wound care practices varied, with a majority of nurses demonstrating competence in essential procedures, such as wound classification (𝑥ത = 2.22)and use of antibacterial cleansers (𝑥ത = 2.22). However, advanced
techniques like negative pressure wound therapy (𝑥ത = 1.44) were rarely utilized. Overall, 55% of respondents exhibited high adherence to wound care protocols, particularly in infection control. Factors identified as significantly influencing wound Care practices included time constraints (𝑥ത = 3.03), and inadequate training (𝑥ത = 2.98). The study concluded that significant relationships exist between adherence levels and demographic variables such as gender, age, educational qualification, and years of experience. However, recommendations include enhancing resource allocation, improving training programs, and fostering mentorship among nursing staff to elevate wound care standards and improve patient outcomes in the studied institutions.

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) remain a significant public health concern among adolescents, particularly in developing countries where knowledge gaps, risky sexual practices, and inadequate preventive strategies persist. This study examined the knowledge, attitude, and practices of risky sexual behavior associated with STDs among adolescents in public secondary schools in Benin City. A descriptive cross-sectional research design was employed, and data were collected from a stratified sample of students using a structured, self-administered questionnaire. The findings revealed varying levels of awareness of STDs, with a notable proportion of respondents demonstrating misconceptions regarding modes of transmission and prevention. While some adolescents exhibited positive attitudes toward safe sexual practices, a considerable number engaged in behaviors that increase their susceptibility to STDs, including unprotected sexual intercourse and multiple sexual partnerships. The study further identified sociocultural influences, peer pressure, and inadequate sexual health education as contributing factors to risky sexual behavior. Based on these findings, it is recommended that comprehensive sexuality education be integrated into the school curriculum, alongside peer-led interventions and community sensitization programs, to promote safer sexual practices and reduce the prevalence of STDs among adolescents in Benin City