ASSESSING THE KNOWLEDGE LEVEL OF ICU NURSES REGARDING PREVENTION OF VENTILATOR-ASSOCIATED PNEUMONIA AT MARDAN MEDICAL COMPLEX, MARDAN

Abstract

Background

Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is a major healthcare-associated infection in intensive care units and is associated with increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. ICU nurses play a critical role in preventing VAP through adherence to evidence-based guidelines; however, inadequate knowledge may hinder effective implementation of preventive strategies.

Objective

To assess the level of knowledge among ICU nurses at Mardan Medical Complex regarding the prevention of ventilator-associated pneumonia and to identify areas requiring educational improvement.

Materials and Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 71 ICU nurses working at Mardan Medical Complex, Mardan. Universal sampling was used. Data were collected using an adopted and validated structured questionnaire focusing on knowledge related to VAP prevention. Data were analysed using SPSS version 26, employing descriptive statistics including frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations.

Results

Among 71 ICU nurses, 78.8% were aged 20–40 years and 63.4% held a Generic BSN. Overall, 50.7% had moderate knowledge of VAP prevention, 25.4% good, and 23.9% poor. Knowledge was highest for head-of-bed elevation (83.1%) and oral care (77.5%), and lowest for sedation interruption (45.1%) and ventilator circuit management (40.8%). Good knowledge increased with ICU experience (13.6% in <2 years vs. 36.9% in >5 years).

Conclusion

The study identified notable knowledge gaps among ICU nurses regarding VAP prevention. Targeted educational interventions and continuous professional development programs are recommended to enhance compliance with evidence-based VAP prevention strategies.