KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICE OF NURSING STUDENTS REGARDING ECG INTERPRETATIONS.

Abstract

Background:
Electrocardiogram (ECG) interpretation is an essential clinical competency for nurses because early recognition of cardiac abnormalities supports timely intervention and improves patient safety. Nursing students require adequate theoretical knowledge and practical skills to accurately interpret ECG findings; however, gaps in ECG competency remain a concern in nursing education.

Aim:
The study aimed to assess the knowledge and practice of nursing students regarding ECG interpretation and determine the association between formal ECG training and competency levels.

Methods:
A descriptive quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted among 420 final-year nursing students enrolled in BSN Generic, Post-RN BSN, and Diploma in General Nursing programs. Participants were selected through a non-probability convenience sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured 31-item self-administered questionnaire assessing socio-demographic characteristics, theoretical ECG knowledge, and practical interpretation skills. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson Chi-Square test through SPSS version 27.0.

Results:
The findings revealed that 45.2% of students had inadequate theoretical knowledge, while 50.0% demonstrated low practical competency. The mean theoretical score was 8.65 ± 2.81, and the mean practical score was 4.90 ± 1.95. Formal ECG training was significantly associated with higher competency levels (χ² = 78.45, p < 0.001).

Conclusion:
Nursing students demonstrated insufficient ECG interpretation competency, highlighting the need for structured ECG education, simulation-based training, and regular skill assessments within nursing curricula.