Idongesit Ibanga Akpabio - Academia.edu (original) (raw)
Papers by Idongesit Ibanga Akpabio
Globally it is estimated that about 400 million individuals are chronic carriers of hepatitis B v... more Globally it is estimated that about 400 million individuals are chronic carriers of hepatitis B virus (HBV) and that more than a million people die annually from HBV related causes. The high carrier rate and hepatitis B being an endemic disease in Nigeria reveal the associated risk of infection among nurses and midwives. If the midwife is infected, the life of the mother and the baby stands the risk in this one infection. This study, investigated midwives knowledge and practice for the prevention of Hepatitis B infection in University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Calabar Nigeria. Method: A descriptive design with a sample of 120 midwives selected through purposive sampling was used. A self-structured questionnaire with content validity index of 0.79 and a test-retest reliability coefficient of 0.81 was used to elicit information. Data was analyzed using simple proportion and parametric test-chi-square (X 2) at p<0.05. Results: Majority of the respondents 58 (48.4%) were between ages 25 and 34 years; 38 (31.6%) were between ages 35 and 44 years, 16 (13.3%) 45 years and above , only 8(6.7%) were between 20-24years. 83 (69.2%) had 6-20 years experience, while 21 (17, 5) and 16 (13.3) had 1-5 years and above 21 years experience respectively, Majority, 96 (80%) were diploma holders. All respondents were females. The results further revealed that 78 (65%) respondents had good knowledge of hepatitis B virus, 83 (69.2%) respondents practiced universal precautions while 37 (30.8%) did not. 117 (95.5%) respondents had never contracted hepatitis B infection, while 3 (2.5%) had contracted through practice. 96 (63.3%) had received hepatitis B vaccine while a high minority 44 (36.7%) had not. Further results highlighted a statistically significant relationship between knowledge regarding prevention of hepatitis B infection and practice of universal precaution (cal X 2 = 15.6; p < 0.05). Conclusion, This study has shown that midwives have high knowledge of HBV and its prevention but with a little gap of poor knowledge which calls for concern. It is recommended that deliberate programmes of continuing education and training should continuously be designed for the target population and other health care workers, vaccines are continuously provided to enhance compliance. I. Background Globally it is estimated that about 400 million individuals are chronic carriers of hepatitis B virus (HBV) and that more than a million people die annually from HBV related causes (Hazmi, 2015). Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) is the blood-borne communicable disease and the ninth leading cause of death worldwide (Bhat, Ghali, Deschenes and Wong, 2012). Though, a major public health issue, the prevalence is higher in the developing countries than the developed. There is an average carrier rate of 10-20% in sub-Saharan African general population and 9 to 39% in Nigeria (Emechebe, Emodi, Ikefuna, Ilechukwu, Igwe, Ejiofor and Ilechukwu, 2009). According to Kesieme, Uwakwe , Irekpita , Dongo , Bwala& Alegbeleye (2011) hepatitis B infection is an important occupational hazard for HCWs, and that it is generally easy to assume that health workers by virtue of their proximity to the health facility should have adequate knowledge about the disease and its mode of prevention but that does not seem to be the case. The high carrier rate and hepatitis B being an endemic disease in Nigeria reveal the associated risk of infection among nurses and midwives who have frequent contact with infected blood through invasive procedures. The most frequent route of transmitting Hepatitis B Virus is through needle stick injury. HBV is a hospital acquired infection which could be transmitted from an infected health-care provider to patients or vice visa which calls for precautionary measures to be put in place to reduce the mortality associated with this disease. However, if the midwife is infected it becomes more precarious
Persistent poor health care quality attributable to non-responsive alien models necessitated this... more Persistent poor health care quality attributable to non-responsive alien models necessitated this study to develop quality assurance package (QAP) for health care in Nigeria with focus on Akwa Ibom State. Quality assurance index (QAI) was the instrument for data collection. A multi-stage random sample of 340 respondents was drawn from 840 health managers in primary health care settings in the state. The research and development (R&D) survey designed was used to develop the package through progressive steps such as: (a) Exploration and establishment of need for the package through library search; (b) determination of the elements (contents) for quality assurance; (c) preliminary validation of the elements; (d) empirical validation of the contents to determine the suitability; and (e) integral feedback mechanism. From the findings of the study, suitable elements for quality assurance identified were: the philosophy {(care should be at minimal risk to client (84.9%), care of benefit to client (79.5%), health worker should aim at best result as they demonstrate moral sense of duty (73.6%); workers should strive for best results (62.4%)}; objectives (giving consumers adequate information in tandem with local needs and exigencies (80.4%), continuous care innovations (67.6%), and safeguarding consumers' satisfaction (76.6%); and measures for quality assurance (continuous education for health workers (87.2%), licensing all health care givers (83.5%), close supervision (79.8%), minimizing unjustified geo-variation of care (85.3%), reducing access barrier (79.4%), among others). The package was recommended for adoption for health care administration in the country.
Nursing informatics (NI) integrates nursing science, computer science and information technology ... more Nursing informatics (NI) integrates nursing science, computer science and information technology to manage and communicate data as well as information and knowledge in nursing practice, administration and education. In recent years, the need to utilize this specialty area in promoting nursing education has increased tremendously and is also demanded by Nursing Councils. However, a close study of the situation in several nursing education and clinical settings including the study area does not seem to convey a good level of implementation. This study investigated NI preparedness of graduate nurses in Calabar, Nigeria. Specific objectives were to determine their level of knowledge concerning NI; roles to play and their self-reported skills in information technology. Four null hypotheses which guided the study were that their level of awareness of NI, level of awareness of roles related to NI, level of self-reported skills for NI and level of awareness on ways to transit to NI were not significantly related to their service areas. A-38 item validated questionnaire with content validity index of .79 and a reliability coefficient of r=.73 was used to gather data from a convenience sample of 102 respondents from a target population of 165 graduate nurses. A total of 101 (99%) questionnaires were adequately completed and used for data analysis. From the results, nurse administrators were 3 (3%); 58 (57%) were clinicians while 40 (40%) were educators. For these subgroups , average scores on knowledge of NI were 56% each for administrators and clinicians, and 51% for educators; with negative and no significant relationship to their service areas (r=-027;P<0.05). Furthermore, 25 (25%) of the respondents rated themselves as adequately computer literate while 76 (75%) admitted only a fair knowledge. The computer literacy level of majority of the nurses is inadequate. Informatics education should be emphasized for all levels of nursing education.
Background: This study was conducted to assess required competencies and possible challenges of u... more Background: This study was conducted to assess required competencies and possible challenges of using ICTs in teaching by NEs in Calabar, Nigeria. Specific objectives were to investigate their knowledge of methods and self-reported skills in communicating educational instructions electronically, their views on the availability of required hardware and software as well as their acceptability of ICTs for use in teaching and learning. Method: The study involved a cross-sectional descriptive design and proportionate random sampling technique to select 40% of NEs of all ranks in all the seven training institutions within the study area. This resulted in a sample size of 35 out of the target population of 88 NEs. The instrument was a 50-items self-administered structured questionnaire with content validity index of 0.88 and reliability coefficient of 0.83. Due attention was given to ethical considerations. Analyses of descriptive data involved frequency counts, percentages, means and standard deviations while the four generated hypotheses were tested using One-sample Population t-test for significance and One-way Analysis of Variance at significance level of 0.05. Results: Results showed high level of knowledge by majority of the respondents in methods including internet-browsing 25 (71.4%); Microsoft word 23 (65.7%) Microsoft power point 22 (62.9%). Very few respondents had knowledge of methods used for teaching students such as Cam-studio 3 (8.6%) and Audacity 7 (20%).With the use of Cam-studio, electronic board and student-teacher software, 20 (57.1%) of the respondents rated their skills as poor or none-existing. Availability of required hardware showed a mean of 36 students to a computer. Similarly, 30 (85.7%) of the respondents need more time prior to emphasis on use of ICT assisted teaching. Furthermore NEs acceptance of use ICT in teaching was not significantly dependent on their years of working experience (Cal. F=2.67>0.05). Conclusion and recommendations: NEs do not posses knowledge and skills that can enable ICTs assisted teaching for the students. Recommendations therefore included provision of structures, facilities, hardware and software that are needed for their training and retraining on all ICT methods for communicating educational instructions.
A conceptual framework (CF) provides researchers with the foundation to build their studies and a... more A conceptual framework (CF) provides researchers with the foundation to build their studies and a better understanding of the relationships among variables in the study. This study examined the influence of cf. related-knowledge, attitude, self-reported skills and organizational support as driving forces in application of cf. in research by nurse educators in Akwa Ibom and Cross River States, Nigeria. It involved a descriptive design, random selection of Schools of nursing, midwifery and psychiatric nursing from the two States and a convenience sample of 100 respondents representing 43.3% of the target population of 231 nurse educators. From this number, 84 (84%) provided sufficient data for analysis. Instrument for data collection was a 23-item validated questionnaire and analysis of descriptive data involved mean and standard deviation while four null hypotheses were tested using population t-test determined at .05 level of significance. Results showed that females were 67 (79.8%) and males 17 (20.2%). The following variables had significant high influence as driving forces to the use of cf. in research: Knowledge3;P=0.00) and organizational support (Cal.t-value=16.7;P=0.00). In conclusion, factors identified as driving forces to enhance application of conceptual framework in research were: conceptual framework related knowledge, positive attitude and adequate skills in the application of conceptual and theoretical framework in research as well as organizational support including demand for application of conceptual or theoretical framework in research. It is important to state that when the factors that enhance actions as driving forces are lacking, then the reverse becomes the norm resulting in restraining forces that limit performance. It was recommended that these factors identified as driving forces to application of cf. in research be enhanced through inclusion in continuing education training modules and Journal editors' demand for inclusion of cf. in research reports meant for publication.
Background: Work-related conflict (WRC) may be inevitable but can interfere with nurses' roles pe... more Background: Work-related conflict (WRC) may be inevitable but can interfere with nurses' roles performance if not well managed. Nurses are unique in the directions from where conflicts emerge: administrators, nursing colleagues, physicians, Para-medical staff, patients and their families. Un-resolved conflicts may be linked to poor communication resulting from refusal to cooperate, poor team collaboration and problem-solving, decreased clients' satisfaction, distrust, split camps, gossips and disruption of work-flow. This study investigated sources of WRC and their influence on nurses' independent and interdependent roles in a Tertiary Hospital in South-south Nigeria. Methods: A 50-items WRC questionnaire built on a four-point Likert-type scale was used to collect data from a random sample of 242 nurses of all ranks, representing 40% of the target population of 585. The instrument had internal consistency of r = .81 and test-retest reliability of r = .83. Data were analyzed using independent t-test determined at significance level of .05. Results: Results showed that female respondents were 237 (98%) while 5 (2%) were males. The major sources of WRC included: conflicts as a result of overwork and poor rewarding system each with frequency of 222 (92%); patients-related conflict and leadership conflicts each with frequency of 218 (90%); misunderstanding involving nursing colleagues with a frequency of 194 (81%); poor work environment 192 (80%); conflicts with other health professionals with 189 (78%) frequency and discrimination issues with 180 (61%) frequency. Furthermore, there was no significant influence of WRC on nurses' independent and interdependent roles. (Cal. t =-4.6; P = .00; Observed mean = 37.7 < Expected mean = 40.0 and Cal. t =-9.3; P = .00; Observed mean = 17.5 < Expected mean = 20.0). Conclusions: Many sources of WRC were observed among the nurses but they were found to have no influence on their roles' performance probably due to the ethical and legal implications of nursing duties. Recommendations included effective and timely communication at all times among nurses, hospital administrators and other stake-holders.
Abstract The purpose of this descriptive, cross sectional survey was to determine the disparities... more Abstract
The purpose of this descriptive, cross sectional survey was to determine the disparities, if any, between school nursing practice in public and private schools in Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria. Validated questionnaire was administered to a purposive sample of 9 nurses covering all the 9 schools with established school health programmes in Calabar. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) Software. Findings show a low coverage (18.4%) of school health programmes in Calabar, with private schools recording a higher level of coverage (23%) than public schools (13.0%). Results show that nurses in private hospitals performed a wider range of services than those in the public schools with private schools being richer in human resources than public schools. Barriers to effective school nursing practice were inadequate resources and health seeking behaviour of students. A more supportive government policy on school health programmes is recommended.
This study examined nursing informatics (NI) preparedness of graduate nurses in Calabar, Nigeria.... more This study examined nursing informatics (NI) preparedness of graduate nurses in Calabar, Nigeria. Specific objectives included to determine their level of knowledge concerning NI; roles to play and their self-reported skills in information technology. A-38 item validated questionnaire was used to gather data from a purposive sample of 102 respondents out of a target population of 165. A total of 101 (99.1%) questionnaires were adequately completed and used for data analysis. From the results, nurse administrators were 3 (3.0%); 58 (57.4%) were clinicians while 40 (39.0%) were educators. For these sub-groups, scores on knowledge of NI were 56.0% each for administrators and clinicians, and 51.0% for educators; with negative and no significant relationship to their service areas (r=-027;P<0.05). Furthermore, 25 (24.8%) of the respondents rated themselves as adequately computer literate while 76 (75.2%) admitted only a fair knowledge. The computer literacy level of majority of the nu...
Background: Poor performance of nursing students in the university and professional examinations ... more Background: Poor performance of nursing students in the university and professional examinations in recent times is a source of concern to both educators and other stakeholders. This study was conducted to determine the influence of study habits on undergraduate nursing students’ academic performance in the University of Calabar, Nigeria. Methods: A cross sectional descriptive study was conducted in 2012 with 160 Students from levels 300 to 500, selected through simple random sampling. Data was collected using self-constructed study habits inventory with content validity index of 0.79 and a test-retest reliability coefficient of 0.81. Copies of the questionnaire were completed by the students in their classroom setting after which achievement tests were administered simultaneously based on the objectives of the course. Data was analyzed using Independent‘t’ test. Results: Majority of the participants were fourth year students 72 (45.0%), followed by third year 64 (40.0%) and fifth y...
African Journal of Midwifery and Women's Health, 2012
![Research paper thumbnail of Fever resolution time in children 0-5 years treated with artemisinin-based-combination therapy at University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Calabar, Nigeria [MIM16692738]](https://attachments.academia-assets.com/48421756/thumbnails/1.jpg)
](This study aimed at evaluating fever resolution time in children with un-complicated malaria, tre... more This study aimed at evaluating fever resolution time in children with un-complicated malaria, treated with artemisinin–based-combination-therapy (ACT) at the Institute of Tropical Diseases, Research and Prevention, University Teaching Hospital, Calabar. The study focused on identifying the types of ACT in use, interval between the commencements of each type of ACT and the first recorded reduction in fever, the differences in fever resolution time with respect to gender, age and weight of the children. The study adopted a descriptive design and a checklist to guide the review of records from hundred case-folders of children diagnosed with uncomplicated malaria and who were at the institute in August 2008, during the data collection period. Independent t-test was used to test four null hypotheses, at .05 levels of significance. Artemisinin-based-combination-therapies in use during the period were Chlorproguanil-Dapsone-Artesunate (CDA); Arthemeter-Lumefantrine (Coartem); Artecom and G...
Population-based practice aimed at meeting the health needs of the poor has remained a neglected ... more Population-based practice aimed at meeting the health needs of the poor has remained a neglected part of community health care in Nigeria. A major problem of our time, which along with the environmental threats weighs heavily on our planet and on the future of individuals is poverty. Poverty, which can be at the level of individuals or groups is a source of health crisis and an indication for community health nursing intervention. This paper reviews issues on poverty including the many faces of poverty on health and well being of individuals, families and communities. Using Betty Neuman's health care system model, strategies to assist clients in maintaining health where poverty is a problem is presented.
Despite the fact that experts attest that voluntary counseling and testing result in prevalence r... more Despite the fact that experts attest that voluntary counseling and testing result in prevalence reduction in HIV positive status and bring about a change in behavior as a strategy for HIV/AIDS prevention, many preventable factors have been implicated for non-utilization of the services. This work surveyed strategies for improving utilization of HIV/AIDS screening services by women in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. It specifically considered the proportion of women who ever had screening, reasons for non-utilization of screening, and strategies of choice for improving utilization of screening services. Purposive samples of 1,750 women were selected from three government-owned hospitals in the three senatorial districts of the State. 1,050 questionnaires that were properly completed were finally used for analysis. An author-developed questionnaire was the only instrument for data collection. Findings revealed that 392 (37.3%) of them were ever screened. Fear of outcome of test result, stig...
Evidence from the field in many developing nations indicates that research findings are not utili... more Evidence from the field in many developing nations indicates that research findings are not utilized to guide nursing practice. This paper is aimed at discussing measures for improving the care through nursing research. The elements of nursing research required for improved care were seen to include identification of clinical problems relevant to nursing practice and collaboration of nurses in all sectors for nursing research. The models that could guide implementation of research findings in practice were identified to include the conduct and utilization of research in nursing (CURN) project designed for use at organization level and the Stelter model of research utilization designed for the use at individual practitioner’s level. Difficulties with improving care through nursing research were identified and discussed under four domains including organizational problems, nurses and nursing problems and problems emanating from the client’s/external environment. Prominent among sugges...
Health promotion activities for women have remained a neglected part of care in Nigeria and many ... more Health promotion activities for women have remained a neglected part of care in Nigeria and many other African countries. Health care of women has concentrated on women’s reproductive functions. This study based on the importance of women’s well-being utilized a descriptive design to identify perceived barriers to community health nurses’ practice of health promotion for women in Essien-Udim Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Additionally, it aimed at identifying the influence of years of nursing experience on perception of barriers and the relationship between knowledge of health promotion roles and the practice of health promotion. Data were collected from 107 nurses using questionnaire, which was constructed with the guidance of data obtained through a focus group discussion. Barriers included lack of support from authorities within the PHC sector, tight schedule due to other nursing commitments, Lack of opportunities for nurses to take health decisions, difficult...
The requirement for accountability in health care delivery has brought about an increasing need f... more The requirement for accountability in health care delivery has brought about an increasing need for reliable and valid information as basis for decision making and practice. However, such practice, based on evidence , is complex and requires interventions at building capacity to enhance practice. This paper examines the common challenges against implementation and utilization of nursing research and evidence-based practice (EBP) as well as strategies required in building capacity for such practice. The challenges were grouped under four prominent areas including poor accessibility of research findings; poor organizational support to use research and available evidence; poor support from significant persons in utilizing research findings and available evidence, as well as fear of anticipated outcome of using research findings. Strategies embedded in a model for capacity building were summarized under six domains. These include addressing problems in organizational environment, govern...
The paper examined the peculiarities of the adolescents due to the rapid changes inherent at this... more The paper examined the peculiarities of the adolescents due to the rapid changes inherent at this developmental stage that are of concern to the public health personnel in Nigeria. It highlighted the fact that the changes pose serious problems, which require the intervention of public health. Of particular concern are changes like breaking of voice by the males, acne, menstruation and laziness from hormonal influence, voracious eating and some antisocial behavior. These changes posited that some of the problems emanate from ignorance on the part of the adolescents and their parents on management, and societal expectations of the adolescents, such as: achieving new and more mature relationships with age mates of both sexes; achieving masculine or feminine social roles; accepting ones physique and using the body effectively; achieving emotional independence from adults; preparing for marriage, family life, and economic carrier; achieving a set of values and an ethical system as a guid...
Globally it is estimated that about 400 million individuals are chronic carriers of hepatitis B v... more Globally it is estimated that about 400 million individuals are chronic carriers of hepatitis B virus (HBV) and that more than a million people die annually from HBV related causes. The high carrier rate and hepatitis B being an endemic disease in Nigeria reveal the associated risk of infection among nurses and midwives. If the midwife is infected, the life of the mother and the baby stands the risk in this one infection. This study, investigated midwives knowledge and practice for the prevention of Hepatitis B infection in University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Calabar Nigeria. Method: A descriptive design with a sample of 120 midwives selected through purposive sampling was used. A self-structured questionnaire with content validity index of 0.79 and a test-retest reliability coefficient of 0.81 was used to elicit information. Data was analyzed using simple proportion and parametric test-chi-square (X 2) at p<0.05. Results: Majority of the respondents 58 (48.4%) were between ages 25 and 34 years; 38 (31.6%) were between ages 35 and 44 years, 16 (13.3%) 45 years and above , only 8(6.7%) were between 20-24years. 83 (69.2%) had 6-20 years experience, while 21 (17, 5) and 16 (13.3) had 1-5 years and above 21 years experience respectively, Majority, 96 (80%) were diploma holders. All respondents were females. The results further revealed that 78 (65%) respondents had good knowledge of hepatitis B virus, 83 (69.2%) respondents practiced universal precautions while 37 (30.8%) did not. 117 (95.5%) respondents had never contracted hepatitis B infection, while 3 (2.5%) had contracted through practice. 96 (63.3%) had received hepatitis B vaccine while a high minority 44 (36.7%) had not. Further results highlighted a statistically significant relationship between knowledge regarding prevention of hepatitis B infection and practice of universal precaution (cal X 2 = 15.6; p < 0.05). Conclusion, This study has shown that midwives have high knowledge of HBV and its prevention but with a little gap of poor knowledge which calls for concern. It is recommended that deliberate programmes of continuing education and training should continuously be designed for the target population and other health care workers, vaccines are continuously provided to enhance compliance. I. Background Globally it is estimated that about 400 million individuals are chronic carriers of hepatitis B virus (HBV) and that more than a million people die annually from HBV related causes (Hazmi, 2015). Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) is the blood-borne communicable disease and the ninth leading cause of death worldwide (Bhat, Ghali, Deschenes and Wong, 2012). Though, a major public health issue, the prevalence is higher in the developing countries than the developed. There is an average carrier rate of 10-20% in sub-Saharan African general population and 9 to 39% in Nigeria (Emechebe, Emodi, Ikefuna, Ilechukwu, Igwe, Ejiofor and Ilechukwu, 2009). According to Kesieme, Uwakwe , Irekpita , Dongo , Bwala& Alegbeleye (2011) hepatitis B infection is an important occupational hazard for HCWs, and that it is generally easy to assume that health workers by virtue of their proximity to the health facility should have adequate knowledge about the disease and its mode of prevention but that does not seem to be the case. The high carrier rate and hepatitis B being an endemic disease in Nigeria reveal the associated risk of infection among nurses and midwives who have frequent contact with infected blood through invasive procedures. The most frequent route of transmitting Hepatitis B Virus is through needle stick injury. HBV is a hospital acquired infection which could be transmitted from an infected health-care provider to patients or vice visa which calls for precautionary measures to be put in place to reduce the mortality associated with this disease. However, if the midwife is infected it becomes more precarious
Persistent poor health care quality attributable to non-responsive alien models necessitated this... more Persistent poor health care quality attributable to non-responsive alien models necessitated this study to develop quality assurance package (QAP) for health care in Nigeria with focus on Akwa Ibom State. Quality assurance index (QAI) was the instrument for data collection. A multi-stage random sample of 340 respondents was drawn from 840 health managers in primary health care settings in the state. The research and development (R&D) survey designed was used to develop the package through progressive steps such as: (a) Exploration and establishment of need for the package through library search; (b) determination of the elements (contents) for quality assurance; (c) preliminary validation of the elements; (d) empirical validation of the contents to determine the suitability; and (e) integral feedback mechanism. From the findings of the study, suitable elements for quality assurance identified were: the philosophy {(care should be at minimal risk to client (84.9%), care of benefit to client (79.5%), health worker should aim at best result as they demonstrate moral sense of duty (73.6%); workers should strive for best results (62.4%)}; objectives (giving consumers adequate information in tandem with local needs and exigencies (80.4%), continuous care innovations (67.6%), and safeguarding consumers' satisfaction (76.6%); and measures for quality assurance (continuous education for health workers (87.2%), licensing all health care givers (83.5%), close supervision (79.8%), minimizing unjustified geo-variation of care (85.3%), reducing access barrier (79.4%), among others). The package was recommended for adoption for health care administration in the country.
Nursing informatics (NI) integrates nursing science, computer science and information technology ... more Nursing informatics (NI) integrates nursing science, computer science and information technology to manage and communicate data as well as information and knowledge in nursing practice, administration and education. In recent years, the need to utilize this specialty area in promoting nursing education has increased tremendously and is also demanded by Nursing Councils. However, a close study of the situation in several nursing education and clinical settings including the study area does not seem to convey a good level of implementation. This study investigated NI preparedness of graduate nurses in Calabar, Nigeria. Specific objectives were to determine their level of knowledge concerning NI; roles to play and their self-reported skills in information technology. Four null hypotheses which guided the study were that their level of awareness of NI, level of awareness of roles related to NI, level of self-reported skills for NI and level of awareness on ways to transit to NI were not significantly related to their service areas. A-38 item validated questionnaire with content validity index of .79 and a reliability coefficient of r=.73 was used to gather data from a convenience sample of 102 respondents from a target population of 165 graduate nurses. A total of 101 (99%) questionnaires were adequately completed and used for data analysis. From the results, nurse administrators were 3 (3%); 58 (57%) were clinicians while 40 (40%) were educators. For these subgroups , average scores on knowledge of NI were 56% each for administrators and clinicians, and 51% for educators; with negative and no significant relationship to their service areas (r=-027;P<0.05). Furthermore, 25 (25%) of the respondents rated themselves as adequately computer literate while 76 (75%) admitted only a fair knowledge. The computer literacy level of majority of the nurses is inadequate. Informatics education should be emphasized for all levels of nursing education.
Background: This study was conducted to assess required competencies and possible challenges of u... more Background: This study was conducted to assess required competencies and possible challenges of using ICTs in teaching by NEs in Calabar, Nigeria. Specific objectives were to investigate their knowledge of methods and self-reported skills in communicating educational instructions electronically, their views on the availability of required hardware and software as well as their acceptability of ICTs for use in teaching and learning. Method: The study involved a cross-sectional descriptive design and proportionate random sampling technique to select 40% of NEs of all ranks in all the seven training institutions within the study area. This resulted in a sample size of 35 out of the target population of 88 NEs. The instrument was a 50-items self-administered structured questionnaire with content validity index of 0.88 and reliability coefficient of 0.83. Due attention was given to ethical considerations. Analyses of descriptive data involved frequency counts, percentages, means and standard deviations while the four generated hypotheses were tested using One-sample Population t-test for significance and One-way Analysis of Variance at significance level of 0.05. Results: Results showed high level of knowledge by majority of the respondents in methods including internet-browsing 25 (71.4%); Microsoft word 23 (65.7%) Microsoft power point 22 (62.9%). Very few respondents had knowledge of methods used for teaching students such as Cam-studio 3 (8.6%) and Audacity 7 (20%).With the use of Cam-studio, electronic board and student-teacher software, 20 (57.1%) of the respondents rated their skills as poor or none-existing. Availability of required hardware showed a mean of 36 students to a computer. Similarly, 30 (85.7%) of the respondents need more time prior to emphasis on use of ICT assisted teaching. Furthermore NEs acceptance of use ICT in teaching was not significantly dependent on their years of working experience (Cal. F=2.67>0.05). Conclusion and recommendations: NEs do not posses knowledge and skills that can enable ICTs assisted teaching for the students. Recommendations therefore included provision of structures, facilities, hardware and software that are needed for their training and retraining on all ICT methods for communicating educational instructions.
A conceptual framework (CF) provides researchers with the foundation to build their studies and a... more A conceptual framework (CF) provides researchers with the foundation to build their studies and a better understanding of the relationships among variables in the study. This study examined the influence of cf. related-knowledge, attitude, self-reported skills and organizational support as driving forces in application of cf. in research by nurse educators in Akwa Ibom and Cross River States, Nigeria. It involved a descriptive design, random selection of Schools of nursing, midwifery and psychiatric nursing from the two States and a convenience sample of 100 respondents representing 43.3% of the target population of 231 nurse educators. From this number, 84 (84%) provided sufficient data for analysis. Instrument for data collection was a 23-item validated questionnaire and analysis of descriptive data involved mean and standard deviation while four null hypotheses were tested using population t-test determined at .05 level of significance. Results showed that females were 67 (79.8%) and males 17 (20.2%). The following variables had significant high influence as driving forces to the use of cf. in research: Knowledge3;P=0.00) and organizational support (Cal.t-value=16.7;P=0.00). In conclusion, factors identified as driving forces to enhance application of conceptual framework in research were: conceptual framework related knowledge, positive attitude and adequate skills in the application of conceptual and theoretical framework in research as well as organizational support including demand for application of conceptual or theoretical framework in research. It is important to state that when the factors that enhance actions as driving forces are lacking, then the reverse becomes the norm resulting in restraining forces that limit performance. It was recommended that these factors identified as driving forces to application of cf. in research be enhanced through inclusion in continuing education training modules and Journal editors' demand for inclusion of cf. in research reports meant for publication.
Background: Work-related conflict (WRC) may be inevitable but can interfere with nurses' roles pe... more Background: Work-related conflict (WRC) may be inevitable but can interfere with nurses' roles performance if not well managed. Nurses are unique in the directions from where conflicts emerge: administrators, nursing colleagues, physicians, Para-medical staff, patients and their families. Un-resolved conflicts may be linked to poor communication resulting from refusal to cooperate, poor team collaboration and problem-solving, decreased clients' satisfaction, distrust, split camps, gossips and disruption of work-flow. This study investigated sources of WRC and their influence on nurses' independent and interdependent roles in a Tertiary Hospital in South-south Nigeria. Methods: A 50-items WRC questionnaire built on a four-point Likert-type scale was used to collect data from a random sample of 242 nurses of all ranks, representing 40% of the target population of 585. The instrument had internal consistency of r = .81 and test-retest reliability of r = .83. Data were analyzed using independent t-test determined at significance level of .05. Results: Results showed that female respondents were 237 (98%) while 5 (2%) were males. The major sources of WRC included: conflicts as a result of overwork and poor rewarding system each with frequency of 222 (92%); patients-related conflict and leadership conflicts each with frequency of 218 (90%); misunderstanding involving nursing colleagues with a frequency of 194 (81%); poor work environment 192 (80%); conflicts with other health professionals with 189 (78%) frequency and discrimination issues with 180 (61%) frequency. Furthermore, there was no significant influence of WRC on nurses' independent and interdependent roles. (Cal. t =-4.6; P = .00; Observed mean = 37.7 < Expected mean = 40.0 and Cal. t =-9.3; P = .00; Observed mean = 17.5 < Expected mean = 20.0). Conclusions: Many sources of WRC were observed among the nurses but they were found to have no influence on their roles' performance probably due to the ethical and legal implications of nursing duties. Recommendations included effective and timely communication at all times among nurses, hospital administrators and other stake-holders.
Abstract The purpose of this descriptive, cross sectional survey was to determine the disparities... more Abstract
The purpose of this descriptive, cross sectional survey was to determine the disparities, if any, between school nursing practice in public and private schools in Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria. Validated questionnaire was administered to a purposive sample of 9 nurses covering all the 9 schools with established school health programmes in Calabar. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) Software. Findings show a low coverage (18.4%) of school health programmes in Calabar, with private schools recording a higher level of coverage (23%) than public schools (13.0%). Results show that nurses in private hospitals performed a wider range of services than those in the public schools with private schools being richer in human resources than public schools. Barriers to effective school nursing practice were inadequate resources and health seeking behaviour of students. A more supportive government policy on school health programmes is recommended.
This study examined nursing informatics (NI) preparedness of graduate nurses in Calabar, Nigeria.... more This study examined nursing informatics (NI) preparedness of graduate nurses in Calabar, Nigeria. Specific objectives included to determine their level of knowledge concerning NI; roles to play and their self-reported skills in information technology. A-38 item validated questionnaire was used to gather data from a purposive sample of 102 respondents out of a target population of 165. A total of 101 (99.1%) questionnaires were adequately completed and used for data analysis. From the results, nurse administrators were 3 (3.0%); 58 (57.4%) were clinicians while 40 (39.0%) were educators. For these sub-groups, scores on knowledge of NI were 56.0% each for administrators and clinicians, and 51.0% for educators; with negative and no significant relationship to their service areas (r=-027;P<0.05). Furthermore, 25 (24.8%) of the respondents rated themselves as adequately computer literate while 76 (75.2%) admitted only a fair knowledge. The computer literacy level of majority of the nu...
Background: Poor performance of nursing students in the university and professional examinations ... more Background: Poor performance of nursing students in the university and professional examinations in recent times is a source of concern to both educators and other stakeholders. This study was conducted to determine the influence of study habits on undergraduate nursing students’ academic performance in the University of Calabar, Nigeria. Methods: A cross sectional descriptive study was conducted in 2012 with 160 Students from levels 300 to 500, selected through simple random sampling. Data was collected using self-constructed study habits inventory with content validity index of 0.79 and a test-retest reliability coefficient of 0.81. Copies of the questionnaire were completed by the students in their classroom setting after which achievement tests were administered simultaneously based on the objectives of the course. Data was analyzed using Independent‘t’ test. Results: Majority of the participants were fourth year students 72 (45.0%), followed by third year 64 (40.0%) and fifth y...
African Journal of Midwifery and Women's Health, 2012
This study aimed at evaluating fever resolution time in children with un-complicated malaria, tre... more This study aimed at evaluating fever resolution time in children with un-complicated malaria, treated with artemisinin–based-combination-therapy (ACT) at the Institute of Tropical Diseases, Research and Prevention, University Teaching Hospital, Calabar. The study focused on identifying the types of ACT in use, interval between the commencements of each type of ACT and the first recorded reduction in fever, the differences in fever resolution time with respect to gender, age and weight of the children. The study adopted a descriptive design and a checklist to guide the review of records from hundred case-folders of children diagnosed with uncomplicated malaria and who were at the institute in August 2008, during the data collection period. Independent t-test was used to test four null hypotheses, at .05 levels of significance. Artemisinin-based-combination-therapies in use during the period were Chlorproguanil-Dapsone-Artesunate (CDA); Arthemeter-Lumefantrine (Coartem); Artecom and G...
Population-based practice aimed at meeting the health needs of the poor has remained a neglected ... more Population-based practice aimed at meeting the health needs of the poor has remained a neglected part of community health care in Nigeria. A major problem of our time, which along with the environmental threats weighs heavily on our planet and on the future of individuals is poverty. Poverty, which can be at the level of individuals or groups is a source of health crisis and an indication for community health nursing intervention. This paper reviews issues on poverty including the many faces of poverty on health and well being of individuals, families and communities. Using Betty Neuman's health care system model, strategies to assist clients in maintaining health where poverty is a problem is presented.
Despite the fact that experts attest that voluntary counseling and testing result in prevalence r... more Despite the fact that experts attest that voluntary counseling and testing result in prevalence reduction in HIV positive status and bring about a change in behavior as a strategy for HIV/AIDS prevention, many preventable factors have been implicated for non-utilization of the services. This work surveyed strategies for improving utilization of HIV/AIDS screening services by women in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. It specifically considered the proportion of women who ever had screening, reasons for non-utilization of screening, and strategies of choice for improving utilization of screening services. Purposive samples of 1,750 women were selected from three government-owned hospitals in the three senatorial districts of the State. 1,050 questionnaires that were properly completed were finally used for analysis. An author-developed questionnaire was the only instrument for data collection. Findings revealed that 392 (37.3%) of them were ever screened. Fear of outcome of test result, stig...
Evidence from the field in many developing nations indicates that research findings are not utili... more Evidence from the field in many developing nations indicates that research findings are not utilized to guide nursing practice. This paper is aimed at discussing measures for improving the care through nursing research. The elements of nursing research required for improved care were seen to include identification of clinical problems relevant to nursing practice and collaboration of nurses in all sectors for nursing research. The models that could guide implementation of research findings in practice were identified to include the conduct and utilization of research in nursing (CURN) project designed for use at organization level and the Stelter model of research utilization designed for the use at individual practitioner’s level. Difficulties with improving care through nursing research were identified and discussed under four domains including organizational problems, nurses and nursing problems and problems emanating from the client’s/external environment. Prominent among sugges...
Health promotion activities for women have remained a neglected part of care in Nigeria and many ... more Health promotion activities for women have remained a neglected part of care in Nigeria and many other African countries. Health care of women has concentrated on women’s reproductive functions. This study based on the importance of women’s well-being utilized a descriptive design to identify perceived barriers to community health nurses’ practice of health promotion for women in Essien-Udim Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Additionally, it aimed at identifying the influence of years of nursing experience on perception of barriers and the relationship between knowledge of health promotion roles and the practice of health promotion. Data were collected from 107 nurses using questionnaire, which was constructed with the guidance of data obtained through a focus group discussion. Barriers included lack of support from authorities within the PHC sector, tight schedule due to other nursing commitments, Lack of opportunities for nurses to take health decisions, difficult...
The requirement for accountability in health care delivery has brought about an increasing need f... more The requirement for accountability in health care delivery has brought about an increasing need for reliable and valid information as basis for decision making and practice. However, such practice, based on evidence , is complex and requires interventions at building capacity to enhance practice. This paper examines the common challenges against implementation and utilization of nursing research and evidence-based practice (EBP) as well as strategies required in building capacity for such practice. The challenges were grouped under four prominent areas including poor accessibility of research findings; poor organizational support to use research and available evidence; poor support from significant persons in utilizing research findings and available evidence, as well as fear of anticipated outcome of using research findings. Strategies embedded in a model for capacity building were summarized under six domains. These include addressing problems in organizational environment, govern...
The paper examined the peculiarities of the adolescents due to the rapid changes inherent at this... more The paper examined the peculiarities of the adolescents due to the rapid changes inherent at this developmental stage that are of concern to the public health personnel in Nigeria. It highlighted the fact that the changes pose serious problems, which require the intervention of public health. Of particular concern are changes like breaking of voice by the males, acne, menstruation and laziness from hormonal influence, voracious eating and some antisocial behavior. These changes posited that some of the problems emanate from ignorance on the part of the adolescents and their parents on management, and societal expectations of the adolescents, such as: achieving new and more mature relationships with age mates of both sexes; achieving masculine or feminine social roles; accepting ones physique and using the body effectively; achieving emotional independence from adults; preparing for marriage, family life, and economic carrier; achieving a set of values and an ethical system as a guid...