Nurses' attitudes and knowledge regarding patient rights: a systematic review

Area of Science:

• Healthcare
• Nursing Education
• Patient Advocacy

Background:

• Patient rights are fundamental to ethical healthcare delivery.
• Understanding nurses' knowledge and attitudes is crucial for improving patient care.
• Existing evidence on this topic requires synthesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and synthesize current evidence on nurses' attitudes and knowledge regarding the full spectrum of patient rights.
• Identify gaps in nurses' understanding and application of patient rights.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was conducted across major databases (Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL).
• Studies were selected based on predefined inclusion/exclusion criteria, adhering to Cochrane and PRISMA guidelines.
• Critical appraisal using the CASP Qualitative Research Checklist and CEB Management tool assessed study rigor.

Main Results:

• Thirteen studies were included, many with methodological limitations (e.g., sampling, response rates, validity).
• Findings reveal a low level of nurse awareness regarding patient rights.
• Specific knowledge gaps exist, with low priority given to the right to access information.

Conclusions:

• Generalizability is limited due to narrow geographical scope, heterogeneity, and methodological weaknesses in the included studies.
• Insufficient evidence exists regarding formal educational interventions for patient rights.
• Further research employing robust methodologies is recommended to strengthen the evidence base.