Nurses' Knowledge, Attitudes, and Perceptions Toward Hospital Accreditation: A Cross-Sectional Study

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Nursing Quality Improvement
• Hospital Accreditation Standards

Background:

• Hospital accreditation is crucial for enhancing healthcare quality and patient safety.
• Nurses' awareness, attitude, and perception significantly influence accreditation program success.
• Understanding these factors is vital for effective implementation of quality standards.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess nurses' knowledge, attitude, and perception regarding hospital accreditation.
• To identify demographic factors influencing these perceptions among nurses.
• To inform strategies for improving accreditation program effectiveness.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2024 at Imam Khomeini Educational-Therapeutic Hospital.
• 156 nurses participated, completing a self-administered questionnaire.
• Data analysis focused on mean scores and demographic correlations.

Main Results:

• Mean scores for knowledge, attitude, and perception were 25.66, 26.23, and 31.58, respectively.
• Knowledge varied with age and education; older nurses and those with postgraduate degrees scored higher.
• Positive attitudes were noted in younger nurses (30-40) with less experience; perception was highest among those with over 10 years of experience.

Conclusions:

• While general awareness of accreditation was moderate, attitudes and perceptions were generally favorable among nurses.
• Specific demographic subgroups showed higher knowledge, more positive attitudes, or better perceptions.
• Targeted educational and motivational interventions are needed to enhance knowledge and sustain positive attitudes across all nursing staff for successful accreditation.