KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICE OF CRITICAL CARE NURSES TOWARDS TRACHEOSTOMY CARE: A PRETEST-POSTTEST A QUASI-EXPERIMENT STUDY
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Date
2025-09-09
Authors
Joma, Samya
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Publisher
An-Najah National University
Abstract
Abstract
Background: Tracheostomy care is a vital nursing duty, especially for patients necessitating extended breathing assistance. Insufficient knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) among nurses might elevate the risk of complications and adversely impact patient outcomes. Despite its clinical significance, data regarding the KAP of Palestinian nurses concerning tracheostomy care is limited.
Aims: This study aims to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of Palestinian registered nurses regarding tracheostomy care and to assess the efficacy of an educational program in improving these dimensions of care before, immediately after, and one month after its introduction.
Methods: A quantitative quasi-experimental study was performed involving 43 registered nurses employed in intensive care units at two hospitals in the West Bank, Palestine. Participants were chosen using convenience sampling and filled out a validated, structured questionnaire evaluating demographics and KAP. Data were gathered at three time points: before the intervention, immediately following the intervention, and follow-up one month subsequent to the intervention. Descriptive and inferential statistics, including repeated measures ANOVA, were conducted using SPSS, with significance established at p < 0.05. Ethical approval and informed consent were secured.
Results: The mean knowledge scores of nurses increased from 49.5% before the intervention to 70.5% immediately following the training, and reached 83.8% after one month. Attitudes rose from 67% to 79.8% and subsequently to 89.2%, while practices enhanced from 65% to 68.2% and then to 80.6%. Enhancements in all areas were statistically significant (p < 0.05). The effects of KAP were also affected by the nurses' department, educational attainment, and previous training.
Conclusion: The education program improved nurses' knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding tracheostomy care, with the most substantial and enduring enhancement noted in practical abilities after one month. Ongoing, focused training is crucial to provide safe, standardized, and evidence-based tracheostomy care in resource-constrained environments.