Tracheal Suctioning: Assessment of Knowledge and Practice of Nurses in the Intensive Care Unit

Abstract

Background: Tracheal suctioning is an essential aspect of effective airway management. It is imperative that nurses are aware of current knowledge and able to practice according evidence based research recommendations. Aims: This study was designed to evaluate nurses’ knowledge and practice in performing tracheal suctioning in intensive care units and to investigate discrepancies between knowledge and practice. Methods: Twenty-eight nurses were observed using observation checklist and interviewed and questioned using a knowledge based questionnaire scores (20) were allocated for knowledge and practice. Results: Majority nurses obtained score less than 10 out of 20 for knowledge and practice 71.4%; 82.1% respectively. Knowledge and practice scores were compared, a weak correlation was identified (r=0.338). No significant relationship between knowledge and practice scores (p>0.05). Conclusion and recommendations: The majority of nurses had unsatisfactory knowledge and incorrect practice related to tracheal suctioning the study raised concern about all aspects of tracheal suctioning and has highlighted the need for change in practice and utilizing evidence-based research findings. Keywords: Tracheal suctioning, knowledge, practice, intensive care, evidence based guidelines.