Congenital Cytomegalovirus Knowledge, Practices, and Beliefs Among Maternal-Child Nursing

Background: Congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) is a leading cause of birth defects and neurodevelopmental disabilities in infants, yet knowledge and routine testing remain inconsistent across the states. Nurses in maternal-child health play a pivotal role in early detection and education, but their knowledge about cCMV has not been widely studied. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the beliefs and practices regarding cCMV among nurses at all levels of education and role, working in maternal, fetal, or pediatric medicine, and to examine how they would respond regarding their knowledge and beliefs. Methods: A modified survey, previously used in a physician cohort, was distributed to nurses through a professional organization across 32 U.S. states without standardized cCMV testing. The survey assessed knowledge of cCMV prevalence, signs and symptoms, long-term outcomes, and current testing practices. Results: A total of 215 nurses responded. Most participants had limited knowledge of cCMV, with an average knowledge score of 3.39 out of 10. Notably, less than half correctly identified the prevalence of cCMV or the potential for delayed hearing loss in asymptomatic infants. Many respondents expressed a desire to learn more, highlighting a clear gap in education and clinical training. Conclusions: Significant knowledge gaps exist among maternal-child nurses regarding cCMV. More research is warranted on nurses' knowledge and beliefs about cCMV, including redefining tools for measuring knowledge, practices, and beliefs, and examination of various roles of nursing. Implications for Nursing: Nurses are essential in identifying at-risk infants and supporting families. Enhancing nurse education about cCMV could improve early detection, referral, and care coordination and potentially influence policy toward universal screening.