Nursing Students' Knowledge and Perception on the Prevention of Intravenous Catheter Infections in the West Bank, Palestine
Rebhi Bsharat
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Intravenous catheter infections are a major cause of healthcare-associated infections, leading to increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Nursing students, as future healthcare providers, play a critical role in infection prevention. This study assessed the knowledge and perception of Palestinian nursing students regarding intravenous catheter infection prevention.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 180 nursing students from two universities in Palestine. Data were collected using a validated questionnaire assessing knowledge (10 items) and perception (13 items). Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data. Independent t-tests and one-way ANOVA examined differences across gender, university, and academic year.
Results: The mean knowledge score was 8.87/10 (SD = 1.47), with 70.6% scoring above average. Key knowledge gaps included incorrect identification of appropriate cannula size (76.7%). The mean perception score was 7.01/13 (SD = 2.16), with 34.4% scoring below average. Misconceptions were found regarding catheter site dressing and disinfection methods. Female students and those from An-Najah National University scored significantly higher in both knowledge and perception (p < 0.05). Perception scores improved with academic year, while knowledge scores showed no significant difference.
Discussion: Findings highlight a strong theoretical understanding but gaps in practical knowledge and perception, particularly in catheter site management. The study underscores the need for enhanced clinical training, standardized infection prevention curricula, and interactive learning strategies.
Conclusion: Despite strong knowledge, nursing students demonstrated gaps in perception and best practices for intravenous catheter infection prevention. Targeted educational interventions are recommended to bridge these gaps and improve patient safety.
