Evaluation of Intensive Care Nurses' Skin Tear Knowledge

Area of Science:

• Nursing Research
• Patient Safety
• Wound Care

Background:

• Skin tears are common injuries in surgical patients, particularly in intensive care settings.
• Adequate knowledge among nurses is crucial for effective prevention and management of skin tears.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the level of skin tear knowledge among intensive care nurses caring for surgical patients.
• To identify factors influencing nurses' skin tear knowledge.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study was conducted with intensive care nurses in a training and research hospital.
• Data were collected using a demographic form and the Skin Tear Knowledge Assessment Instrument (OASES).

Main Results:

• Nurses demonstrated a moderate level of knowledge regarding skin tears.
• Years of intensive care experience and direct experience with skin tear patients positively correlated with OASES scores.
• No significant relationship was found between knowledge scores and age, sex, education, or prior skin tear training.

Conclusions:

• Intensive care nurses have a moderate understanding of skin tear management.
• Clinical experience, specifically caring for patients with skin tears, is a key determinant of enhanced skin tear knowledge.