A STUDY ON THE EFFECT OF KNOWLEDGE NETWORK AMONG NURSES IN NIGERIA

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

Background of the study 

All practical and scientific groups today hold the view that companies need to operate around the axis of knowledge and information if they hope to maintain a steady and ongoing presence in the cutthroat world of business. In the healthcare system, nurses also act as the primary information providers for patients, families, and the community (Earl, 2019).

Knowledge sharing, or KS, is a useful tactic for fostering collaboration in all kinds of organisations, including those in the healthcare industry. In today's knowledge-based society, it has emerged as a crucial component of knowledge management (KM), greatly assisting in the growth of both individuals and organisations. Knowledge sharing (KS) is the process by which people exchange explicit and implicit information, ideas, skills, experiences, and knowledge to support innovation in the workplace (Noe, 2020).

The idea of knowledge networks among nurses has drawn more attention in recent years because of its possible influence on professional development and healthcare outcomes. Within a community of professionals, knowledge networks are the organised sharing of knowledge, abilities, and skills with the goal of promoting lifelong learning and enhancing decision-making (Smith & Gillespie, 2021). These networks are especially important for nurses, as information must constantly be updated due to the rapid changes in medical procedures and technologies. Effective information sharing is essential to maintaining high standards of patient care and the smooth operation of healthcare systems as nurses interact across specialities and healthcare settings (McSherry et al., 2020).

The power of knowledge networks to address communication barriers allows nurses to exchange best practices, get the most recent research, and participate in peer-to-peer learning. Better clinical decision-making, fewer errors, and better patient outcomes have all been associated with this collaborative setting (Carroll et al., 2022). Furthermore, the integration of technology, such as online forums, social media, and digital libraries, has considerably enlarged the breadth of these networks, allowing nurses to exchange knowledge more freely and speedily, overcoming geographical borders (Jones et al., 2023). This connection encourages a shared responsibility culture in patient care and facilitates ongoing professional growth.

Nonetheless, there are certain obstacles to knowledge networks' efficacy. The smooth flow of information within these networks might be hampered by problems including information overload, unequal access to digital resources, and different degrees of participation (Morris et al., 2022). Furthermore, some healthcare organisations' hierarchical structures might inhibit open communication, which makes it challenging for nurses to fully participate in knowledge-sharing activities (Roberts & Lawson, 2021). To fully realise the potential advantages of knowledge networks, these obstacles must be addressed. Further study is required to determine effective solutions.

Nurse knowledge networks can significantly improve healthcare delivery by promoting a culture of cooperation and ongoing education. These networks' reach has increased even further with the incorporation of technology, but there are still issues that need to be taken into consideration since they may limit their usefulness. According to Williams and Foster (2023), future research should investigate novel strategies for fortifying these networks and enhancing their influence on nursing practice.

 Statement of the problem

In the quickly changing healthcare industry, nurses play a vital role in providing high-quality patient care. Nonetheless, one of the major obstacles they encounter is the efficient exchange and use of knowledge among healthcare establishments. To improve patient outcomes and nurses' professional competencies, knowledge networks—a collection of formal and informal platforms that enable information sharing and collaboration—are crucial (Trevino, 2020). Despite the potential advantages of information networks, Nigerian nurses do not use them to the fullest extent, which leaves gaps in professional development and healthcare delivery overall.

According to multiple research, Nigerian nurses face challenges in obtaining current information and optimal practices since they have restricted access to professional knowledge networks (Olowu & Ayoade, 2021). Infrastructure problems including inadequate internet access, a dearth of technology resources, and a lack of institutional support for lifelong learning and information exchange exacerbate this problem (Oke, 2022). Ineffective knowledge networks make it difficult for nurses to stay up to date with developments in global healthcare, which lowers the standard of care that patients receive.

Furthermore, the hierarchical structure of many Nigerian healthcare facilities inhibits nurses from collaborating and exchanging ideas freely, which impedes the growth of strong knowledge networks (Adebola & Afolabi, 2023). Instead of being viewed as a necessary component of professional duties, knowledge sharing is frequently viewed as optional, which creates a fragmented system where knowledge and experiences are not regularly shared around nursing practice levels.

As a result, this issue highlights a crucial vacuum in Nigeria's healthcare system, where the development and maintenance of knowledge networks might greatly advance nurses' careers and boost patient outcomes. The need to explore how knowledge networks can be developed, supported, and sustained among nurses in Nigeria is pressing, particularly in light of the increasing complexity of healthcare needs and the demand for high-quality, evidence-based care (Akanji, 2022).

1.3 Objectives of the Study 

The primary objective of this study is to assess the effect of knowledge network among nurses in Nigeria. Specifically the study seeks:

To determine whether there is an existing knowledge networks among nurses in Nigeria.

To examine the relationship between participation in knowledge networks and the quality of patient care provided by nurses in various healthcare settings in Nigeria.

To evaluate the impact of knowledge networks on the professional development of nurses in Nigeria.

1.4 Research Questions

The following research questions will be answered in this study:

Is there an existing knowledge networks among nurses in Nigeria?

What is the relationship between participation in knowledge networks and the quality of patient care provided by nurses in various healthcare settings in Nigeria?

What are the impact of knowledge networks on the professional development of nurses in Nigeria?

1.5 Research Hypothesis

The stated hypothesis will validate this study:

Ho1: There is no significant the effect of knowledge network among nurses in Nigeria.

Ha1: There is a significant the effect of knowledge network among nurses in Nigeria.

1.6 Significance of the study

First off, efficient knowledge networks can greatly improve nurses' ability to obtain, share, and use pertinent information in a healthcare setting marked by quick changes and breakthroughs. The purpose of this project is to demonstrate how these networks can enhance clinical judgement, advance evidence-based treatment, and eventually result in better patient outcomes. 

Furthermore, the research advances knowledge about professional development among Nigerian nurses. By providing a forum for ongoing education and career development, knowledge networks help nurses stay current on the newest procedures, standards, and advancements in the medical field. By identifying the specific ways in which these networks facilitate learning and sharing among nurses, the study informs policymakers and educational institutions about the importance of integrating knowledge networks into nursing curricula and ongoing professional development programs. This, in turn, can lead to a more competent and well-informed nursing workforce, capable of meeting the complex healthcare needs of the population.

This study is important for Nigerian healthcare administration and policy development as well. Using the combined knowledge and experiences of nurses through efficient knowledge networks is essential as the nation deals with issues including scarce resources, rising patient expectations, and an expanding illness load. The results of this study may help healthcare organisations understand how to foster collaborative and knowledge-sharing cultures among their nursing staff. 

Furthermore, the research is anticipated to provide insights into the obstacles and enablers of knowledge networking among Nigerian nurses. Gaining an understanding of these processes is essential to creating focused strategies that improve knowledge network utilisation. By tackling the obstacles that nurses have while interacting with various networks and stakeholders, measures that promote a more favourable atmosphere for information sharing can be put into place.

Lastly, this research may add to the larger conversation on knowledge management's place in the medical field. The research highlights the value of fostering knowledge networks as a way to improve healthcare quality and patient safety by concentrating primarily on nurses, who are essential to patient care and healthcare delivery. 

1.7 Scope of the study

The study aims to assess the effect of knowledge network among nurses in Nigeria. Empirically, this study assesses whether there is an existing knowledge networks among nurses in Nigeria, the relationship between participation in knowledge networks and the quality of patient care provided by nurses in various healthcare settings in Nigeria and the impact of knowledge networks on the professional development of nurses in Nigeria.

1.8 Limitation of the study

Like in every human endeavour, the researchers encountered slight constraints while carrying out the study. The significant constraint was the scanty literature on the subject owing that it is a new discourse thus the researcher incurred more financial expenses and much time was required in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature, or information and in the process of data collection, which is why the researcher resorted to a limited choice of sample size. Additionally, the researcher will simultaneously engage in this study with other academic work. However in spite of the constraint all these constraint were downplayed to give the best.

1.9 Definition of terms

Nurses: Nurses are healthcare professionals trained to care for individuals, families, and communities to help them achieve and maintain optimal health. They provide medical care, administer medications, monitor patient conditions, and offer support and education to patients and their families.

Knowledge: Knowledge is the understanding or awareness gained through experience, education, or information about a particular subject or situation. It involves the accumulation of facts, skills, and insights that can be applied in various contexts.

Knowledge network: A knowledge network is a system or platform that facilitates the sharing and exchange of information, expertise, and experiences among individuals or groups. It allows members to collaborate, learn from one another, and access resources to enhance their understanding of specific topics or fields.

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