Perceived Competence in Nutrition Care Among Hospital Nurses and Its Associated Factors: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background/Objectives: Hospital malnutrition is a prevalent and clinically significant issue associated with prolonged hospital stays, increased complications, and mortality. Although nurses play a key role in monitoring nutritional status and delivering nutrition care, many lack confidence and do not perceive nutrition care as part of their primary responsibilities. This study assessed nurses' self-perceived nutrition care competence, identified associated factors, and examined their objectively scored nutrition knowledge alongside self-reported nutrition care competence. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among unit nurses providing direct patient care at a tertiary hospital in Korea. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire assessing participant characteristics, nutrition education-related characteristics, nutrition knowledge, and self-perceived nutrition care competence. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, group comparisons, correlation analyses, and multiple linear regression analyses. Results: Among 206 recruited nurses, data from 185 were analyzed. The mean self-perceived nutrition care competence score was 72.24 ± 12.48 (possible range: 24-120). Greater clinical experience, pediatric unit practice, previous nutrition-related education, and higher nutrition knowledge were independently associated with self-perceive nutrition care competence. The mean nutrition knowledge score was 13.81 ± 2.69 (69.1% correct). Notably, although nurses recognized the importance of nutrition care and expressed willingness to receive education, participation in nutrition-related training was limited. Conclusions: Self-perceived nutrition care competence was associated with both individual and practice environment factors. Despite the high perceived need for and willingness to participate in nutrition education, previous participation in nutrition-related education was limited. These findings support consideration of educational and organizational strategies to facilitate nutrition care in nursing practice.