Date of Award

11-2023

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Advanced Practice Nurs​ing (MSc-APN)​

First Advisor

Dr Grace Nakate

Second Advisor

Isabel Kambo

Department

School of Nursing and Midwifery, East Africa

Abstract

Trauma-related injuries contribute to a higher mortality rate than the combined impact of prevalent infectious diseases. Notably, mortality secondary to trauma is disproportionately elevated in low- to middle-income countries compared to their developed counterparts. In these resource-constrained settings, trauma care stands out as one of the least developed aspects of healthcare, hindered by an uncoordinated system and limited resources. Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), positioned publicly and proximate to significant roadways, experiences a substantial influx of patients with trauma-related injuries. Despite preventive initiatives, the incidence of trauma-related injuries has surged significantly, placing a heavy burden on KNH. This study aims to determine the knowledge, attitude, and practices of nurses who provide trauma care to patients admitted to KNH's surgical department. Using a cross-sectional descriptive approach, 170 nurses from KNH's surgical department were included in the study, chosen by stratified and random sampling. Data collection utilized a structured questionnaire, with the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) analysis performed. Descriptive statistics depicted continuous variable characteristics, while categorical variables were expressed through percentages and frequencies. Inferential statistics tested associations among variables, setting a level of statistical significance at a P-value of < 0.05 for demographic characteristics' association with knowledge, attitude, and practice. The findings showed that knowledge of trauma care and training related to trauma were significantly associated, and 64.1% of participants showed a positive attitude toward trauma care. However, a substantial majority (60.6%) demonstrated suboptimal practices in trauma care. Trauma-related training significantly influenced knowledge, supported by a p-value of 0.01. Consistent with earlier studies, the study emphasizes the significance of trauma-related training for nurses working in these departments. The study has led to recommendations to improve nurse interventions and policies, ultimately improving trauma care.

First Page

1

Last Page

113

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