Table of Contents
Abstract. 2
CHAPTER ONE.. 5
INTRODUCTION.. 5
1.1 Background to the Study.. 5
1.2 Statement of the Problem... 6
1.3 Objectives of the Study.. 8
1.4 Research Questions. 8
1.5 Research Hypothesis. 9
1.6 Significance of the Study.. 9
1.7 Scope of the Study.. 10
1.8 Limitations of the Study.. 10
1.9 Organization of the Study.. 10
CHAPTER TWO.. 13
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE.. 13
2.1 Introduction.. 13
2.2 Theoretical Review.. 13
2.3 Conceptual Review.. 15
2.4 Empirical Review.. 19
2.5 Summary of Literature Review.. 21
CHAPTER THREE.. 23
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY.. 23
3.1 RESEARCH DESIGN.. 23
3.2 STUDY SETTING.. 23
3.3 SAMPLING.. 23
3.4 DATA COLLECTION INSTRUMENTS.. 24
3.5 DATA ANALYSIS.. 24
3.6 RELIABILITY.. 24
3.7 VALIDITY.. 24
3.8 ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS.. 25
3.9 LIMITATIONS.. 25
3.10 CONCLUSION.. 25
CHAPTER FOUR.. 26
DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION.. 26
4.1 Preamble.. 26
4.2 Socio-Demographic Characteristics of Respondents. 26
TABLES BASED ON RESEARCH QUESTIONS.. 30
4.3 Analysis of the Respondents’ Views on Research Question one:. 30
4.4 Testing Hypothesis. 40
4.5 Discussion of Findings. 41
CHAPTER FIVE.. 44
SUMMARY CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS.. 44
5.1 Summary of Findings. 44
5.2 CONCLUSION.. 45
5.3 RECOMMENDATIONS.. 46
REFERENCES.. 47
APPENDIX.. 50
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
In the dynamic landscape of healthcare, effective communication between nurses and patients stands as a cornerstone for quality care delivery. This introductory exploration delves into the assessment of nurse-patient communication within Nigerian hospitals and its profound influence on patient satisfaction. Nigeria's healthcare system, though striving for excellence, grapples with various challenges, including resource constraints and infrastructural limitations, which can impact the quality of nurse-patient interactions. Understanding the nuances of communication within this context is paramount for enhancing patient experiences and ultimately improving health outcomes.
Scholarly inquiry into nurse-patient communication in Nigerian hospitals underscores its multifaceted nature and its implications for patient satisfaction. By examining the intricacies of verbal and non-verbal exchanges, researchers aim to discern patterns, barriers, and facilitators that shape these interactions. Moreover, the cultural diversity inherent in Nigeria adds another layer of complexity, warranting a nuanced approach to communication assessment. Date: (Smith et al., 2020; Ola et al., 2018).
Patient satisfaction, a pivotal metric in healthcare quality assessment, intertwines closely with the quality of nurse-patient communication. Studies suggest a strong correlation between positive communication experiences and overall patient contentment. Conversely, breakdowns in communication can lead to misunderstandings, dissatisfaction, and even compromised health outcomes. As such, evaluating the efficacy of communication strategies becomes imperative for healthcare providers seeking to optimize patient satisfaction and foster therapeutic alliances. Date: (Oladapo et al., 2019; Adebayo et al., 2017).
Furthermore, this exploration acknowledges the role of technology in shaping contemporary nurse-patient communication paradigms in Nigerian hospitals. With the proliferation of telemedicine and digital health platforms, opportunities arise for innovative approaches to fostering meaningful patient engagement remotely. However, it is essential to assess the cultural appropriateness and accessibility of such technologies within the Nigerian context. Date: (Adeloye et al., 2021; Adebayo & Ilesanmi, 2020).
1.2 Statement of the Problem
In the bustling healthcare landscape of Nigerian hospitals, effective communication between nurses and patients stands as a crucial determinant of patient satisfaction and overall healthcare outcomes. However, the assessment of nurse-patient communication in this context remains inadequately explored, posing a significant challenge to improving healthcare quality. The dearth of comprehensive studies addressing this issue impedes the identification of existing communication gaps and the implementation of targeted interventions to address them (Makanjuola, 2020). Furthermore, cultural, linguistic, and socio-economic factors unique to Nigeria may introduce additional complexities to nurse-patient interactions, further underscoring the need for a thorough examination of this phenomenon within the local healthcare context (Adejumo & Adebayo, 2018).
Without a nuanced understanding of the dynamics shaping nurse-patient communication in Nigerian hospitals, healthcare providers risk overlooking critical factors that could enhance patient satisfaction and contribute to better health outcomes. Suboptimal communication may lead to misunderstandings, decreased adherence to treatment plans, and ultimately diminished patient satisfaction, highlighting the urgency for comprehensive assessment and intervention (Makanjuola, 2020). Moreover, the quality of nurse-patient communication has been shown to correlate with various healthcare outcomes, including patient safety, treatment adherence, and overall healthcare utilization, further underscoring the imperative of addressing this issue (Adejumo & Adebayo, 2018). By elucidating the specific challenges and barriers impeding effective communication in Nigerian hospital settings, healthcare stakeholders can develop tailored strategies to optimize nurse-patient interactions and ultimately improve patient satisfaction and healthcare delivery.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine Assessment of Nurse-Patient Communication in Nigerian Hospitals and its Influence on Patient Satisfaction. Specific objectives of the study are:
- To evaluate the current state of nurse-patient communication in Nigerian hospitals.
- 2. To investigate the association between nurse-patient communication and patient satisfaction in Nigerian hospitals.
- To identify areas for improvement in nurse-patient communication practices within Nigerian hospitals.
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:
- 1. To what extent do nurses in Nigerian hospitals effectively communicate information, demonstrate empathy, and encourage patient participation during interactions?
- 2. Is there a significant correlation between the quality of nurse-patient communication and the level of satisfaction reported by patients in Nigerian hospitals?
- What specific communication skills or approaches can be incorporated into nursing practices within Nigerian hospitals to improve patient satisfaction?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:
Ho: Assessment of Nurse-Patient Communication in Nigerian Hospitals has a significant Influence on Patient Satisfaction
1.6 Significance of the Study
The study is important for many reasons. The following are the major stakeholders this paper through its practical and theoretical implications and findings will be of great significance:
Firstly, the paper will benefit major stakeholders and policy makers in the Nursing Science sector. The various analysis, findings and discussions outlined in this paper will serve as a guide in enabling major positive changes in the industry and sub-sectors.
Secondly, the paper is also beneficial to the organizations used for the research. Since first hand data was gotten and analysed from the organization, they stand a chance to benefit directly from the findings of the study in respect to their various organizations. These findings will fast track growth and enable productivity in the organisations used as a case study.
Finally, the paper will serve as a guide to other researchers willing to research further into the subject matter. Through the conclusions, limitations and gaps identified in the subject matter, other student and independent researchers can have a well laid foundation to conduct further studies.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study is delimited to UUTH, Uyo. Findings and recommendations from the study reflects the views and opinions of respondents sampled in the area. It may not reflect the entire picture in the population.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The major limitations of the research study are time, financial constraints and delays from respondents. The researcher had difficulties combining lectures with field work. Financial constraints in form of getting adequate funds and sponsors to print questionnaires, hold Focus group discussions and logistics was recorded. Finally, respondents were a bit reluctant in filling questionnaires and submitting them on time. This delayed the project work a bit.
1.9 Organization of the Study
The study is made up of five (5) Chapters. Chapter one of the study gives a general introduction to the subject matter, background to the problem as well as a detailed problem statement of the research. This chapter also sets the objectives of the paper in motion detailing out the significance and scope of the paper.
Chapter Two of the paper entails the review of related literature with regards to corporate governance and integrated reporting. This chapter outlines the conceptual reviews, theoretical reviews and empirical reviews of the study.
Chapter Three centers on the methodologies applied in the study. A more detailed explanation of the research design, population of the study, sample size and technique, data collection method and analysis is discussed in this chapter.
Chapter Four highlights data analysis and interpretation giving the readers a thorough room for the discussion of the practical and theoretical implications of data analyzed in the study.
Chapter Five outlines the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study. Based on objectives set out, the researcher concludes the paper by answering all research questions set out in the study.
