Determinants of patient-centred emergency nursing care in primary hospitals at Tutume and North-East districts, Botswana.
Date
2025
Authors
Mafolo, Ubepo Josepher
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
The University of Zambia
Abstract
Patient-centred emergency nursing care is a holistic approach to emergency medical services that prioritizes the unique needs and values of each patient. This study assesses the determinants of patient-centred emergency nursing care (ENC) among emergency nurses in primary hospitals in Tutume and North-East districts, Botswana. Primary hospitals, often are the first referral point for patients in rural and semi-rural areas, play a vital role in delivering timely and appropriate ENC. Patient centred ENC is crucial for patient survival rates, morbidity, and overall healthcare outcomes. It involves rapid assessment, prioritizing lifethreatening conditions, coordination with healthcare teams, and addressing emotional, psychological, and social needs. It involves clear explanations, active listening, patient education, pain management, comfort, best practices, reassurance, and advocacy for patient rights. The study employed descriptive cross-sectional design, conducted on a total of 44 emergency nurses from three selected primary hospitals at Tutume and North-East districts, Botswana. Data was collected using a structured pre-tested questionnaire. Data analysis was performed
using SPSS version 27. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data, and binary logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent predictors of patient-centred ENC. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. The results showed that only 77.3% of the respondents achieved in providing patient-centred ENC. Furthermore, the study revealed that 25% of the respondents had adequate knowledge
related to emergency care, only 13.6% of the respondents were aware of the availability of SOPs, and the availability of essential ENC equipment was also observed to be inadequate, with only 59% of essential equipment available at all centres. The multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that only age was a significant predictor of patient-centred ENC (AOR: 45.69; 95% CI: 1.71–1222.39; p = 0.023). This study identifies that while a majority of respondents demonstrated competency in achieving the provision of patient-centred ENC, significant gaps in knowledge and awareness of SOPs were observed. Age was identified as a significant predictor of patient-centred ENC, highlighting the need for staff development opportunities, including training and mentorship programs, to improve ENC skills for younger nurses. The study's results highlight the need for healthcare stakeholders to address the knowledge gaps and inadequate infrastructure in primary hospitals at Tutume and North-East districts, Botswana.
Keywords: Emergency Nursing Care; Primary Hospitals; Botswana; Determinants; patientcentred Care.
Description
Thesis of Master of Science in Emergency and Trauma Nursing.