THE INFLUENCE OF NURSING CARE MODALITIES ON QUALITY OF NURSING CARE IN KISUMU COUNTY REFERRAL HOSPITAL

Abstract

Background: Nursing care delivery models are crucial in determining the quality of care provided to patients. The selection and implementation of appropriate nursing care modalities can significantly impact patient outcomes and satisfaction. This study aimed to investigate the influence of nursing care modalities, such as functional nursing, team nursing, and primary nursing, on the quality of nursing care at Kisumu County Referral Hospital (KCRH). Methods: This was a comparative cross-sectional study. Data was collected using structured questionnaires from 15 nurses working in the medical and surgical wards at KCRH. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The findings revealed that functional nursing had both positive and negative influences on the quality of nursing care. Functional nursing was perceived to enhance efficiency and allow for specialization, but it was also associated with fragmented and depersonalized care. Team nursing showed a strong positive correlation with collaboration and quality of care, but negative associations with communication, evaluation, and promptness. Primary nursing demonstrated the potential to positively influence continuity, personalization, and overall care excellence, though it also had a negative correlation with empowerment. Conclusion: The study highlights the complex and multifaceted relationship between nursing care modalities and the perceived quality of nursing care at KCRH. A balanced approach incorporating elements of team-based and primary nursing care may be most effective in enhancing the quality of care. Recommendations include adopting a hybrid nursing care model, providing continuous training, and regularly assessing and monitoring the quality of nursing care.