Nurses’ knowledge, experience and self-reported adherence to evidence-based guidelines for prevention of ventilator-associated events: A national online survey

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To explore Australian intensive care nurses' knowledge of ventilator-associated pneumonia and self-reported adherence to evidence-based guidelines for the prevention of ventilator-associated events. DESIGN: A quantitative cross-sectional online survey was used. SETTING: The study was conducted in two Australia intensive care units, in large health services in Victoria and an Australia-wide nurses' professional association (Australian College of Critical Care Nurses). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Participants' knowledge and self-reported adherence to evidence-based guidelines. RESULTS: The median knowledge score was 6/10 (IQR: 5-7). There was a significant positive association between completion of post graduate qualification and their overall knowledge score p = 0.014). However, there was no association (p = 0.674) between participants' years of experience in intensive care nursing and their overall score. The median self-reported adherence was 8/10 (IQR: 6-8). The most adhered to procedures were performing oral care on mechanically ventilated patients (n = 259, 90.9%) and semi-fowlers positioning of the patient (n = 241, 84.6%). There was no relationship between participants' knowledge and adherence to evidence-based guidelines (p = 0.144). CONCLUSION: Participants lack knowledge of evidence-based guidelines for the prevention of ventilator-associated pneumonia. Specific education on ventilator-associated events may improve awareness and guideline adherence.