ABSTRACT

Sepsis is a life-threatening condition, particularly among immunocompromised patients, who face an increased risk due to weakened immune responses. This study examines nurses' attitudes toward sepsis in immunocompromised clients in selected wards of a tertiary healthcare institution in Edo State, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 54 registered nurses in the oncology, male, and female medical wards of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS version 25. Findings reveal that 88.9% of nurses recognize the importance of identifying sepsis symptoms, and 77.8% acknowledge the significance of understanding risk factors. Despite this, 59% reported that managing sepsis in immunocompromised clients is highly challenging. While 75.9% agreed that all nurses should be responsible for sepsis care, only 51.9% expressed confidence in advocating for these patients. Additionally, 87% emphasized the need for specialized care units for immunocompromised clients. Regarding nursing responsibilities, 94.4% highlighted collaboration with other healthcare professionals as paramount, and 88.9% acknowledged the importance of assessing patients’ nutritional needs. The study underscores the need for continuous education and training to enhance nurses’ knowledge and confidence in managing sepsis in immunocompromised patients. Implementing standardized protocols and specialized training programs could improve early recognition, timely intervention, and overall patient outcomes. Further research is recommended to explore strategies for reducing challenges in sepsis management.

Key words: Nurses’ Attitude, Sepsis, Immunocompromised, Clients, Nursing Responsibilities.