KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDES, AND PERCEIVED BARRIERS REGARDING BLOOD TRANSFUSION SAFETY AMONG NURSES IN DHQ HOSPITAL DIR UPPER.

Abstract

Background: Blood transfusion is a life-saving intervention widely used in healthcare, but errors during transfusion can lead to serious adverse events, including reactions, infections, and mortality. Nurses play a central role in ensuring transfusion safety, and their knowledge, attitudes, and perceived barriers are critical determinants of patient outcomes. Understanding these factors is essential for improving transfusion practices, particularly in resource-limited district hospitals.

Aim: This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and perceived barriers regarding blood transfusion safety among nurses at District Headquarter (DHQ) Hospital Dir Upper, Pakistan.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among all 60 eligible nurses using a universal sampling technique. Data were collected over four weeks using a structured, self-administered questionnaire comprising sections on demographics, knowledge, attitudes, and perceived barriers. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27. Descriptive statistics summarized the findings, while chi-square and t-tests were applied to examine associations between demographic variables and knowledge or attitude levels.

Results: The majority of nurses (45%) demonstrated moderate knowledge of transfusion safety, while 35% had adequate knowledge and 20% showed inadequate understanding. Most nurses (63.3%) exhibited a positive attitude toward transfusion safety, but 25% were neutral and 11.7% displayed negative attitudes. Heavy workload, staff shortages, lack of refresher training, and limited supervision were the most frequently reported barriers. Significant associations were observed between years of experience and knowledge level (p = 0.045) and between educational qualification and attitude level (p = 0.039).

Conclusion: While nurses at DHQ Hospital Dir Upper generally showed positive attitudes toward blood transfusion safety, knowledge gaps and multiple systemic barriers persist. Continuous education, mentorship, adequate staffing, and institutional support are essential to enhance safe transfusion practices and improve patient outcomes.