Narrative Review of Predictors of Academic Performance in Nursing (Published)

This narrative review examines the diverse range of factors that predict academic performance in nursing education within the context of Nigeria. The review synthesizes existing literature to identify the multifaceted predictors that influence students’ success in nursing programs. Through a comprehensive analysis, this review highlights the interconnected nature of these predictors, emphasizing their significance for students, educators, institutions, and policymakers. Drawing on a wide range of studies, this review underscores the crucial role of prior academic performance, entrance examination scores, and effective study habits as key determinants of academic success. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of intrinsic motivation, clinical performance, and the role of support systems in shaping students’ achievements. The review delves into the impact of personal characteristics, and socio-demographic characteristics, along with their implications for academic outcomes. Furthermore, the review acknowledges the influence of cultural and socioeconomic factors on academic performance, showcasing the need for tailored approaches that address the unique needs of diverse student populations. It also highlights the relevance of health and well-being, technology literacy, and effective communication skills as important predictors in the dynamic landscape of nursing education. In conclusion, this narrative review provides a comprehensive understanding of the intricate predictors that impact academic performance in nursing education in Nigeria. By recognizing these predictors and developing strategies to support them, educators, institutions, and policymakers can collaboratively enhance the quality of nursing education, cultivate proficient nursing professionals, and contribute to the advancement of healthcare in the region.

Keywords: : Academic Performance, Nursing, predictors

Attitudes of Almajmaah University Undergraduate Nursing Students toward Older People’s Care (Published)

The aim of this study was to investigate attitudes of Saudi Arabia nursing students towards care for older people and, their intention and willingness to provide care for this population in the future. Nursing students at a Saudi Arabian university were sampled for the study. A cross section of the students (n = 250) completed the modified Kogan’s ‘Attitudes towards Older People Scale’ (1960) and data was analysed using SPSS (v.20). Findings indicate that nursing students have positive attitudes towards older people and that these positive attitudes are influenced by the Saudi socio-cultural context that promotes extended family structure with one or more older persons in most family units. Despite these positive attitudes, Saudi nursing students are unwilling to choose professional care of older people as a career path. Since this reluctance could be influenced by the dearth of educational content that improve students’ knowledge about the care needs of older people, the study recommends the establishment of educational programmes within nursing curriculum that promote a better understanding of older people’s care needs and thus enhance the value of caring for older people professionally.

Keywords: : Older People, Attitudes, Nursing, Saudi Arabia

The Incidence and Detectability of Phlebitis by Healthcare Professionals in a 1,200 Bed Teaching Hospital with No Vascular Access Team (Published)

Infusion phlebitis can be caused by a multitude of factors including the chemical nature of the infusion, the catheter type, insertion and care technique, and factors leading to catheter or site contamination. A cross-sectional study of 100 randomly selected charts of patients were reviewed for the occurrence of phlebitis and IV-related adverse event. In addition, an 8-item questionnaire that assessed 51 physicians’ and nurses’ knowledge of phlebitis and aspects of prevention and care was administered. 95 of the 100 patients were included in the study. Overall phlebitis incidence was 36.8%. Three cases of infiltration and one of extravasation were also documented. The median interquartile range (IQR) score was 62.5 (50-75). This study reports a moderately high incidence of phlebitis and other IV complications. It suggests the need for a better system of documenting phlebitis, and the need to be consistent in compliance with CDC guidelines for line longevity

Keywords: Incidence, Intravenous Access, Knowledge, Nursing, Phlebitis