Knowledge and Self-Reported Practices in Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infection Prevention Among Nurses: The...

Area of Science:

• Nursing Research
• Infection Prevention and Control
• Healthcare Quality Improvement

Background:

• Central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) are a significant concern in intensive care units (ICUs), leading to increased mortality, prolonged hospital stays, and higher healthcare costs.
• Effective prevention strategies are vital for improving patient outcomes and reducing the economic burden of CLABSIs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the mediating role of perceived barriers in the relationship between ICU nurses' knowledge and their self-reported practices for preventing CLABSIs.
• To understand the factors influencing the translation of knowledge into practice for CLABSI prevention.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional correlational study design was utilized.
• A convenience sample of 224 ICU nurses completed a web-based self-report questionnaire.
• Mediation analysis, employing the percentile bootstrap method, was conducted to assess the indirect effect of knowledge on practices via perceived barriers.

Main Results:

• Knowledge was not a significant predictor of self-reported CLABSI prevention practices.
• Perceived barriers were a significant determinant of self-reported CLABSI prevention practices (β = -0.068, p < 0.001).
• Perceived barriers significantly mediated the relationship between knowledge and self-reported CLABSI prevention practices (β = 0.029, p = 0.037).

Conclusions:

• Perceived barriers are critical in influencing ICU nurses' adherence to CLABSI prevention practices.
• Knowledge alone is insufficient; interventions targeting perceived barriers are essential for improving practice and patient safety.
• Future interventions should focus on training, structural support, and policy changes to overcome barriers and enhance CLABSI prevention.