Emerging Health Issues and Challenges in the Training and Practice of Auxiliary Nurses as Ad-hoc Health Professionals in Achieving Sustainable Health Development in Delta State
Abstract
This study employed a quantitative survey research design to investigate the emerging health issues and challenges faced by auxiliary nurses in Delta State, Nigeria. A structured questionnaire was meticulously designed to gather data from a sample of 120 respondents, primarily consisting of practising auxiliary nurses. SPSS version 27 served as the analytical tool, facilitating the presentation and in-depth analysis of the collected data. Hypotheses were tested using the t-test to assess the significance of relationships between emerging health issues, job satisfaction, and healthcare service quality among auxiliary nurses in Delta State. The findings of this study revealed significant correlations between the extent of emerging health issues encountered by auxiliary nurses and their ability to provide quality healthcare services. Additionally, the study established a clear relationship between the implications of these health issues and the training and practice of auxiliary nurses in the state. These findings suggest that emerging health challenges impact both the quality of healthcare services provided by auxiliary nurses and their job satisfaction and retention rates within the healthcare workforce. In conclusion, this study highlights the critical role of auxiliary nurses in the healthcare landscape of Delta State and emphasizes the need for proactive measures to address emerging health challenges. The study recommends ongoing training, resource allocation, support networks, and the integration of evidence-based practices to enhance the training and practice of auxiliary nurses. Furthermore, strengthening professional associations and formulating and implementing policies tailored to the unique needs of auxiliary nurses are essential steps towards sustainable health development in Delta State.
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
Background to the Study
In the pursuit of sustainable health development, the role of healthcare professionals cannot be overstated (Kulasegaram et al., 2021). These individuals are the backbone of any healthcare system, working tirelessly to ensure the well-being of communities and individuals. Among these professionals, auxiliary nurses, also known as healthcare assistants or nursing aides, play a crucial role in bridging gaps in healthcare delivery, especially in resource-constrained settings (Aboshady et al., 2019). In Delta State, Nigeria, like many other regions around the world, auxiliary nurses serve as ad-hoc healthcare providers, contributing significantly to the achievement of sustainable health development goals (Berman and Frenk, 2018). However, as they navigate their roles in healthcare, they face emerging health issues and challenges that necessitate a closer examination.
The term “auxiliary nurse” typically refers to healthcare workers with limited formal training in nursing, who assist registered nurses and physicians in various healthcare settings (Anderson et al., 2018). They often perform essential tasks such as administering medications, taking vital signs, assisting with patient mobility, and providing basic wound care (Busari et al., 2017). In Delta State, where access to healthcare resources can be limited, auxiliary nurses become the frontline healthcare providers in underserved communities (Manabe et al., 2022).
These healthcare professionals are instrumental in delivering essential services, including maternal and child healthcare, vaccination campaigns, and health education (Phlypo et al., 2018). They serve as the first point of contact for patients, offering critical care and support during emergencies and routine healthcare visits (Naegle et al., 2017). In rural and remote areas where access to medical facilities is challenging, auxiliary nurses often serve as the primary healthcare providers (Rawal et al., 2020).
Despite their invaluable contributions, auxiliary nurses face several challenges that impact their ability to provide effective care. One of the primary challenges is the limited formal training they receive (Caverzagie et al., 2017). Unlike registered nurses, who undergo comprehensive nursing programs, auxiliary nurses typically receive abbreviated training, which may not adequately prepare them for the complexities of healthcare (Tomiak et al., 2020). This gap in training can affect their clinical decision-making, potentially compromising patient safety (Patrício et al., 2021).
Additionally, auxiliary nurses often work in resource-constrained environments with inadequate healthcare infrastructure and limited access to medical supplies and equipment (Peluso et al., 2017). This can hinder their ability to provide quality care and respond effectively to emergencies (Hauer et al., 2018). In such settings, they must rely on their clinical skills and improvisation to address healthcare needs (Rekman et al., 2020).
Emerging health issues, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, have further highlighted the challenges faced by auxiliary nurses (Ghebrehiwet et al., 2017). The pandemic placed immense pressure on healthcare systems worldwide, and auxiliary nurses found themselves at the forefront of the response efforts (Samarasekera et al., 2020). They had to adapt rapidly to new protocols and infection control measures, often with limited access to personal protective equipment (PPE) and training resources (Day et al., 2020). The pandemic also emphasized the need for ongoing education and support for auxiliary nurses to enhance their preparedness for future health crises (Gulati et al., 2020).
To address these challenges and harness the full potential of auxiliary nurses in achieving sustainable health development goals, several key actions are necessary. First, there is a need for comprehensive and standardized training programs that equip auxiliary nurses with the necessary knowledge and skills (Busari et al., 2018). These programs should cover a wide range of topics, including clinical care, infection control, and emergency response.
Second, healthcare systems should invest in improving the working conditions of auxiliary nurses (Battat et al., 2018). This includes ensuring access to essential medical supplies, equipment, and PPE. Adequate staffing levels and support from registered nurses and physicians are also critical for their success (Langlois et al., 2018).
Third, ongoing professional development opportunities, such as workshops and simulation-based training, can enhance the competency and confidence of auxiliary nurses (Fritze et al., 2019). These initiatives should focus on addressing the specific challenges they encounter in their daily practice, including the management of emerging health issues like pandemics (Komenda et al., 2017).
Consequently, auxiliary nurses play an indispensable role in healthcare, especially in resource-constrained settings like Delta State, Nigeria. Their contributions to sustainable health development are significant, as they often serve as the primary healthcare providers in underserved communities. However, they face challenges related to limited formal training, resource constraints, and emerging health issues. To unlock their full potential and ensure the delivery of quality care, comprehensive training, improved working conditions, and ongoing professional development are essential. These actions can empower auxiliary nurses to continue making invaluable contributions to healthcare systems worldwide.
Statement of Problem
The statement of the problem in this context revolves around the challenges and limitations faced by auxiliary nurses in their roles as essential healthcare providers in resource-constrained settings, such as Delta State, Nigeria. Despite their critical contributions to sustainable health development, auxiliary nurses encounter various issues that hinder their ability to deliver quality healthcare services effectively.
One significant problem is the limited formal training and education received by auxiliary nurses (Aboshady et al., 2019). Unlike registered nurses, who undergo comprehensive nursing programs, auxiliary nurses typically receive abbreviated training. This shortfall in formal education can impact their clinical decision-making abilities and compromise patient safety. Furthermore, auxiliary nurses often work in resource-constrained environments characterized by inadequate healthcare infrastructure, insufficient medical supplies, and limited access to essential equipment (Peluso et al., 2017). These challenging conditions hinder their capacity to provide quality care and respond adequately to healthcare emergencies.
The emergence of health crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, has further accentuated the problems faced by auxiliary nurses (Ghebrehiwet et al., 2017). They have had to adapt rapidly to new protocols and infection control measures, often with inadequate access to personal protective equipment and training resources (Day et al., 2020). Consequently, there is a pressing need to address these challenges and enhance the preparedness and effectiveness of auxiliary nurses in delivering healthcare services.
Objectives of the Study
This study aims to achieve the following specific objectives:
- To assess the extent of emerging health issues and challenges encountered by auxiliary nurses in Delta State.
- To explore the implications of these emerging health issues and challenges on the training and practice of auxiliary nurses in the state.
- To propose evidence-based recommendations for enhancing the training and practice of auxiliary nurses to improve healthcare delivery and contribute to sustainable health development in Delta State.
Research Questions
To guide this study, the following research questions have were formulated:
- What are the emerging health issues and challenges faced by auxiliary nurses in Delta State?
- How do these emerging health issues and challenges affect the training and practice of auxiliary nurses in the state?
- What recommendations can be made to address these challenges and improve the effectiveness of auxiliary nurses in achieving sustainable health development in Delta State?
Research Hypotheses
In line with the research questions, the following hypotheses were tested:
- There is a significant relationship between the emerging health issues faced by auxiliary nurses in Delta State and their ability to provide quality healthcare services.
- The challenges encountered by auxiliary nurses in Delta State hurt their job satisfaction and retention in the healthcare workforce.
- The implementation of evidence-based recommendations can lead to improvements in the training and practice of auxiliary nurses, contributing to sustainable health development in Delta State.
Significance of the Study
This study carries significant implications for a range of stakeholders within the healthcare sector of Delta State, Nigeria. These stakeholders include policymakers, healthcare administrators, educators, auxiliary nurses themselves, and the general population. The research findings are anticipated to have multifaceted impacts:
Firstly, the study is poised to inform policy development within Delta State’s healthcare system. By shedding light on the challenges that auxiliary nurses encounter, policymakers can make informed decisions aimed at improving the training, working conditions, and overall effectiveness of these healthcare professionals. Evidence-based insights will provide a strong foundation for crafting policies that better support auxiliary nurses in their vital roles.
Secondly, the research is expected to contribute to the enhancement of healthcare delivery in Delta State. By addressing the emerging health issues and challenges faced by auxiliary nurses, the study has the potential to raise the quality of healthcare services offered to the population. This, in turn, may lead to improved health outcomes for the people of Delta State.
Thirdly, educators and trainers responsible for the preparation of auxiliary nurses can benefit significantly from the study’s findings. The insights garnered from this research can guide the adaptation and enhancement of training programs. By incorporating a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by auxiliary nurses into their curricula, educators can better equip these healthcare professionals to navigate the complexities of their practice effectively.
Furthermore, this study has the potential to empower auxiliary nurses themselves. By highlighting and acknowledging the challenges they confront, the research may contribute to increased awareness and recognition of their crucial roles within the healthcare system. This, in turn, could lead to improved support, resources, and working conditions for auxiliary nurses, enabling them to carry out their duties more effectively.
Lastly, in a broader context, this research aligns to achieve sustainable health development in Delta State and similar regions. By addressing the issues faced by auxiliary nurses and working towards their empowerment and improved healthcare delivery, this study contributes to the overarching objective of sustainable health development, ultimately benefiting the entire population.
Scope of the Study
The scope of this study is comprehensive, aiming to provide a deep understanding of the roles, challenges, and potential solutions concerning auxiliary nurses in Delta State, Nigeria. It encompasses several critical dimensions within the healthcare sector of the region.
Firstly, the study intends to explore the roles and responsibilities of auxiliary nurses in various healthcare settings within Delta State. This includes an examination of their daily tasks, interactions with patients, and collaboration with registered nurses and physicians. By delving into the specifics of their roles, the research seeks to create a comprehensive picture of the contributions made by auxiliary nurses to the healthcare system.
Secondly, the scope of the study encompasses an investigation into the challenges encountered by auxiliary nurses during their practice. These challenges may encompass issues related to training, working conditions, resource constraints, and broader healthcare system dynamics. A thorough examination of these challenges will provide valuable insights into the areas requiring improvement and intervention.
Additionally, the study’s scope extends to addressing emerging health issues faced by auxiliary nurses. Given the evolving nature of healthcare needs and disease patterns, it is crucial to understand how auxiliary nurses adapt to these changes. This includes their response to new health challenges and their ability to provide effective care in the face of emerging diseases or public health crises.
Furthermore, the research encompasses an assessment of the training programs available to auxiliary nurses. It evaluates the adequacy and effectiveness of existing training curricula in preparing these healthcare professionals for their roles. By identifying areas of improvement in training programs, the study aims to contribute to the enhancement of auxiliary nurse education.
Operational Definition of Terms
Auxiliary Nurses: Healthcare workers with limited formal training in nursing who assist registered nurses and physicians in various healthcare settings. In this study, the term refers to those practising in Delta State.
Sustainable Health Development: The continuous improvement of health services, healthcare infrastructure, and health outcomes within a region, aimed at achieving long-term health and well-being for the population.
Emerging Health Issues: Challenges, trends, or issues that have recently gained prominence or evolved within the healthcare sector, potentially impacting the delivery of healthcare services.
Training: The process of providing education, skills, and knowledge to auxiliary nurses to prepare them for their roles in healthcare.
Practice: The day-to-day activities and responsibilities of auxiliary nurses in providing healthcare services to the population.
Healthcare Delivery: The process of providing healthcare services to individuals and communities, including preventive, curative, and rehabilitative care.
Policymakers: Individuals responsible for formulating and implementing policies related to healthcare and other sectors in Delta State.
Health Outcomes: The measurable results of healthcare interventions, including improvements in health status, reduced morbidity and mortality, and enhanced well-being of the population.
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