THE IMPACT OF CULTURAL BELIEFS AND PRACTICES ON NURSING CARE IN NIGERIA (A CASE STUDY OF UYO METROPOLIS)

Table of Contents

Abstract. 2

CHAPTER ONE.. 6

INTRODUCTION.. 6

1.1 Background to the Study. 6

1.2 Statement of the Problem... 7

1.3 Objectives of the Study. 8

1.4 Research Questions. 9

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. 11

1.9 Organization of the Study. 11

CHAPTER TWO.. 14

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE.. 14

2.1 Introduction.. 14

2.2 Theoretical Review.. 14

2.3 Conceptual Review.. 16

2.4 Empirical Review.. 19

2.5 Summary of Chapters. 21

Chapter Three. 21

Research Methodology. 21

3.1 Introduction.. 21

3.2 Research Design.. 22

3.3 Research Population.. 22

3.4 Sample Size and Sampling Techniques. 22

3.5 Data Collection Methods. 23

3.6 Instrumentation.. 23

3.7 Data Collection Procedure. 24

3.8 Data Analysis. 24

3.9 Ethical Considerations. 24

3.10 Limitations of the Study. 25

3.11 Summary. 25

CHAPTER FOUR.. 25

DATA PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION.. 25

4.2 DATA ANALYSIS.. 26

4.4      Testing Hypothesis. 42

Discussion of Findings. 43

CHAPTER FIVE.. 47

SUMMARY CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION.. 47

5.1 Summary of Findings. 47

5.2 Conclusion.. 48

5.3 Recommendations. 49

REFERENCES.. 51

Questionnaire titled "THE IMPACT OF CULTURAL BELIEFS AND PRACTICES ON NURSING CARE IN NIGERIA (A CASE STUDY OF UYO METROPOLIS).". 54

 

 

 

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background to the Study

 

In Nigeria, cultural beliefs and practices play a profound role in shaping the provision of nursing care, influencing both patients' perceptions of health and illness and the approaches taken by healthcare professionals. The rich tapestry of Nigerian cultures encompasses diverse traditions, languages, and belief systems, which significantly impact healthcare delivery. Understanding and navigating these cultural nuances are imperative for nurses to provide effective, patient-centered care. From traditional healing methods to religious rituals, cultural practices deeply intertwine with healthcare in Nigeria, often influencing treatment-seeking behaviors and healthcare decision-making processes. Adebamowo, C. A., & Ezeome, E. R. (2018).

 

 

Traditional Nigerian cultural beliefs often intersect with modern healthcare practices, posing both challenges and opportunities for nurses. Patients may adhere to traditional healing practices alongside conventional medical treatments, requiring nurses to respect and integrate these beliefs into their care plans. Moreover, cultural values such as respect for elders and communal decision-making may influence patients' autonomy in healthcare decision-making, necessitating nurses to engage in culturally sensitive communication and shared decision-making processes. Amoran, O. E., Salako, A. A., & Lawal, K. M. (2012).

 

Religious beliefs also exert a significant influence on nursing care in Nigeria, as the country is home to diverse religious affiliations, including Christianity, Islam, and indigenous African religions. Religious practices often dictate healthcare behaviors, such as dietary restrictions, prayer rituals, and preferences for spiritual healing. Nurses must recognize and accommodate these religious beliefs to ensure holistic care that respects patients' spiritual and cultural identities. Etowa, J. B., & Wiens, J. (2016).

 

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Understanding the influence of cultural beliefs and practices on nursing care in Nigeria is crucial due to its potential impact on healthcare outcomes and patient satisfaction. The coexistence of traditional healing methods, diverse religious practices, and societal norms presents complex challenges for nurses providing care in this context. These cultural factors often intersect with modern healthcare practices, leading to conflicts, misunderstandings, and disparities in care delivery. Despite the recognition of cultural competence as essential in nursing practice, there remains a gap in understanding how to effectively navigate and integrate cultural beliefs and practices into nursing care in Nigeria, thus necessitating further exploration and research in this area. Abimbola, S., & Malik, A. U. (2018).

One significant issue arises from the potential clash between traditional healing practices and evidence-based medical care. While traditional healing methods are deeply rooted in Nigerian culture and may hold significant importance for patients, they can sometimes conflict with biomedical approaches endorsed by healthcare professionals. This incongruence may lead to delays in seeking appropriate medical care, non-compliance with treatment regimens, or even adverse health outcomes. Thus, there is a need to explore strategies for promoting collaboration and mutual respect between traditional healers and healthcare providers to ensure the delivery of holistic and culturally sensitive care. Ojelade, I. A., & Borode, A. O. (2019).

 

 

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The main objective of the study is to examine the impact of cultural beliefs and practices on nursing care in Nigeria. Specific objectives of the study are:

  1. To understand how cultural beliefs influence patient decision-making regarding healthcare in Nigeria.
  2. To analyze the challenges and opportunities nurses face in providing culturally competent care in Nigeria.
  3. To evaluate the effectiveness of educational interventions in improving cultural competency among Nigerian nurses.

1.4 Research Questions

To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:

  1. How do cultural beliefs about the causes of illness spiritual vs. physical affect patient choices to seek traditional healers or biomedical treatment?
  2. What are the most common cultural beliefs and practices that create challenges for nurses in delivering effective care to patients in Nigerian healthcare settings?
  3. What are the existing educational programs or training modules focused on cultural competency currently offered to nurses in Nigeria?

1.5 Research Hypothesis

The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:

Ho: There is no significant impact of cultural beliefs and practices on nursing care in Nigeria.

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 Uyo Metropolis.  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.