Impact of Formal and Lifelong Education on Croatian Nurses' Knowledge of Pressure Ulcers: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background/Objectives: Formal and lifelong education on pressure injuries enables the acquisition and maintenance of relevant knowledge and represents a key link in ensuring quality and safe care. Critical planning and continuous implementation of education programs directly contributes to better management of these injuries and ensures consistent application of best practices in everyday nursing care. Methods: This study is based on a cross-sectional, quantitative methodology conducted in a state hospital in Croatia, on a sample of 268 participants. Results: Work experience did not show a significant correlation with test scores while the level of education, a master's degree in nursing, had the highest mean percentages in prevention and overall score. Differences in test performance across department type showed a significant difference for the prevention subscale for neurological department staff. Activities such as reading the professional literature and attending lectures showed a positive correlation with higher scores in different areas of prevention, staging and the overall test. Internet use was positively associated with all subscales and the overall score. Conclusions: Despite the unsatisfactory level of knowledge of the respondents, the positive impact of formal and lifelong education on the existing level of information about pressure ulcers is evident. These findings highlight the need for improvement and better organization of educational programs, with an emphasis on their accessibility, continuity and focus on clearly defined learning outcomes.