NURSES' KNOWLEDGE REGARDING SAFE ADMINISTRATION OF PARENTERAL MEDICATIONS IN PUBLIC SECTOR HOSPITALS OF PESHAWAR

Abstract

Background: Safe parenteral medicine administration is an essential component of quality nursing care and plays a vital role in the treatment of illness, prevention of complications, and promotion of patient safety. Nurses are directly responsible for medication administration, and any error during parenteral drug delivery may lead to serious adverse outcomes, including infection, hypersensitivity reactions, prolonged hospital stay, morbidity, and mortality. Therefore, adequate knowledge regarding safe administration of parenteral medications is crucial for nurses working in clinical settings.

Objective: The objective of this study was to assess nurses’ knowledge regarding the safe administration of parenteral medications in public sector hospitals of Peshawar.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study design was used to evaluate nurses’ knowledge regarding safe administration of parenteral medications. The study was conducted in public sector tertiary care hospitals of Peshawar. A total of 152 registered nurses were selected using a convenience sampling technique. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire adapted and modified according to the study setting. The questionnaire consisted of demographic characteristics and knowledge-related items regarding safe parenteral medication administration. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20, and descriptive statistics were used to summarize the findings.

Results: The findings of the study revealed that 47.1% of nurses agreed on the use of gloves while administering parenteral medications. About 51.3% of nurses emphasized the importance of aseptic technique during parenteral drug administration. Furthermore, 76.31% of participants reported that hand washing before and after medication administration is necessary. Overall, 88.81% of nurses demonstrated sufficient knowledge regarding the safe administration of parenteral medications.

Conclusion: The study concludes that nurses working in public sector hospitals of Peshawar possess adequate knowledge regarding the safe administration of parenteral medications. However, despite sufficient knowledge, gaps in actual practice still exist, indicating the need for continuous education, regular training programs, and strict adherence to standard medication administration protocols to enhance patient safety and quality of care.