Pressure ulcer prevention knowledge among Jordanian nurses: a cross- sectional study

Area of Science:

• Nursing Research
• Healthcare Quality Improvement
• Patient Safety

Background:

• Pressure ulcers represent a significant patient safety concern and financial burden within healthcare systems.
• Despite advancements, pressure ulcers persist in both hospital and community settings, necessitating ongoing research into prevention strategies.
• Limited studies exist on pressure ulcer prevalence and prevention knowledge in Jordan.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess Jordanian nurses' knowledge levels regarding pressure ulcer prevention.
• To identify the primary sources of pressure ulcer prevention knowledge among nurses.
• To explore barriers encountered by nurses in implementing pressure ulcer prevention guidelines.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study was conducted using self-administered questionnaires.
• Data was collected from 194 baccalaureate and master's level nurses in eight Jordanian hospitals.
• Statistical analyses included ANOVA, t-tests, means, standard deviation, and frequencies to evaluate knowledge, sources, and barriers.

Main Results:

• A significant majority (73%) of nurses demonstrated inadequate knowledge of pressure ulcer prevention.
• Lowest knowledge scores were observed in areas of etiology, pressure/shear reduction, and risk assessment.
• In-service training was a secondary knowledge source after university education, with staff shortages and time constraints cited as major implementation barriers.

Conclusions:

• The study reveals concerningly low levels of pressure ulcer prevention knowledge among Jordanian nurses.
• Inadequate knowledge suggests poor dissemination of evidence-based guidelines in Jordan.
• The lack of correlation between experience and knowledge underscores the need for enhanced and consistent educational initiatives.