Assessment of knowledge and practice of blood transfusion among nurses in North West bank hospitals in Palestine رسالة ماجستير

Abstract

Background: Blood transfusion is an essential and common medical procedure that can save lives but may lead to complications if not managed properly. Nurses play a crucial role in the transfusion process, and mistakes frequently occur due to deficiencies in knowledge and practice, particularly in environments without ongoing training. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and practice of blood transfusion among nurses working in hospitals in the North West Bank of Palestine. Methods: A cross-sectional quantitative descriptive study was performed with 282 nurses employed in medical, surgical, and ICU units in hospitals located in the North West Bank in Palestine. A structured questionnaire, modified from validated instruments, was utilized to evaluate knowledge (10 items) and practice (15 items) using multiple-choice questions. Data were analyzed by using SPSS version 21. Results: The average knowledge score was 33.09%, while the average practice score was 36.19%, both demonstrating poor levels. Nurses working in ICU departments achieved considerably higher scores than their counterparts in medical and surgical units. A moderate, statistically significant positive relationship existed between knowledge and practice scores (r = 0.442, p < 0.001). Discussion: The findings indicate a common lack of knowledge and practice among nurses, especially in non-ICU environments. These findings are consistent with research from other developing settings and indicate a deficiency in standardized training initiatives. The positive relationship between knowledge and practice indicates that boosting education could improve clinical performance. Conclusion: The research revealed that nurses in hospitals of the North West Bank have deficiencies in knowledge and practice related to blood transfusion, posing risks to patient safety. It emphasizes the immediate requirement for continuous education, training, and regular assessment to enhance transfusion safety and outcomes