NURSES ROLE IN PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH DISORDERS IN THE PSYCHIATRIC UNIT OF UNIVERSITY OF BENIN TEACHING HOSPITAL, EDO STATE

Abstract

This study investigated the role of nurses in the prevention and management of mental health disorders in the psychiatric unit of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Edo State. A descriptive cross-sectional research design was adopted, and a purposive sampling technique was used to select forty-eight (48) registered nurses working in the psychiatric unit. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed with the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27.0. The study examined three major areas: nurses’ role in prevention and management, the specific nursing interventions used in psychiatric care, and the challenges faced in executing these roles. Findings revealed that most respondents demonstrated strong awareness of their responsibilities in preventing and managing mental health disorders. A total of 81% agreed that nurses play key roles in care planning, behavioral monitoring, counseling, health education, medication management, and collaboration with other professionals. However, only 69% reported consistent use of specific nursing interventions such as therapeutic communication, supportive counseling, safety management, and family involvement, indicating a moderate level of practice compared to their level of awareness. In addition, 75% identified major challenges, including inadequate staffing, high workload, limited training, medication shortages, stigmatization, and risk of violence, which negatively affect quality care delivery. A chi-square test (χ² = 12.47, p = 0.001) confirmed a significant relationship between nurses’ role recognition and the use of specific nursing interventions. The study concluded that while psychiatric nurses at UBTH have a clear understanding of their roles in mental health care, systemic and organizational barriers hinder effective practice and intervention delivery. It is therefore recommended that hospital management and policymakers provide regular in-service training, improve staffing levels, ensure consistent medication supply, enhance workplace safety, and promote interprofessional collaboration. Additionally, advocacy and anti-stigma campaigns should be strengthened to improve nurses’ morale and the overall quality of mental health care services. Keywords: Nurses, Prevention, Management, Mental Health Disorders, Psychiatric Unit.