Intensive Care Nurses’ Knowledge for Endotracheal Tube Suctioning in Private Hospitals in North West-Bank: Prospective Study رسالة ماجستير

Abstract

Endotracheal intubation (ETT) with mechanical ventilation (MV) is the most common point of airway intervention practice used in clients referred to hospital Intensive care units for the sole target of preserving a clear and open airway. ETT prevents sufficient coughing and the loss of mucociliary function, which causes secretions to accumulate in the airway. The main objective was to assess ICU nurses' knowledge of ETS in private hospitals in the North West Bank. A prospective, descriptive, quantitative study design, done in the ICU Department at Private Hospitals in the North-West Bank. The target population was all ICU nurses in private hospitals in the North West Bank, who met the inclusion criteria. A convincing sample was composed of 258 ICU nurses was participated in the study during the data collection period. Demographic analysis revealed a predominantly male participant base (60.9%), primarily aged between 21-40 years (85.6%), with a Bachelor's degree as the most prevalent educational qualification (69.4%). Experience levels varied, with 39.5% having less than 5 years of ICU experience. Notably, 61.2% reported receiving specific ETS training. Findings regarding ETS knowledge and practices underscored a comprehensive understanding among participants. A resounding 86% emphasized the necessity of patient assessment before suctioning, while 77.5% advocated for smaller suction catheters. Moreover, 90.3% stressed the importance of aseptic techniques during suctioning. Analysis of knowledge levels yielded a mean score of 18.9 out of 24, with significant influences from demographic factors. Males exhibited a higher mean knowledge score (19.41 ± 3.32) than females (18.12 ± 3.54). Similarly, individuals with a Master's degree boasted the highest mean knowledge score (19.50 ± 4.33), while those with over 20 years of experience demonstrated the lowest (16.67 ± 3.14) According to this study, the researcher concludes with several key insights regarding ICU nurses’ knowledge of Endotracheal Suctioning (ETS). Some significant factors that influence ICU nurses’ knowledge such as gender (male nursing), educational background, and years of experience play important roles. The experience years in nursing work and special experience in the ICU as a nurse are important points that influence the knowledge of nursing regarding ETS.