Knowledge, attitudes, and practice toward postoperative cognitive dysfunction among anesthesiologists in China: a...

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Neuroscience
• Patient Safety

Background:

• Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a significant concern following anesthesia.
• Understanding anesthesiologists' awareness and practices is crucial for improving patient outcomes.
• A nationwide study assessed knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) toward POCD in China.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the current knowledge, attitudes, and practice (KAP) levels of anesthesiologists in China concerning postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD).
• To identify factors associated with adequate knowledge and good practice regarding POCD management.
• To inform targeted educational strategies for Chinese anesthesiologists.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study was conducted nationwide among 1032 Chinese anesthesiologists from December 2022 to January 2023.
• A web-based questionnaire collected demographic data and KAP scores related to POCD.
• Good KAP scores were defined as achieving ≥60% on relevant dimensions.

Main Results:

• Anesthesiologists showed mean scores of 9.3/12 for knowledge, 34.8/40 for attitude, and 30.6/40 for practice.
• Key knowledge gaps were identified regarding anesthetic drugs causing POCD (23.3%) and POCD treatment (40.3%).
• Factors like age (≥40), higher education, senior professional titles, and working in tertiary hospitals were linked to better knowledge and practice.

Conclusions:

• Chinese anesthesiologists exhibit generally good knowledge, attitudes, and practices concerning POCD.
• Areas needing improvement include identifying specific drugs causing POCD and effective management strategies.
• Enhanced training and continuing education are recommended to address these identified gaps.