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Background: Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections (CLABSIs) are a major source of preventable harm in ICUs, leading to increased mortality, morbidity, and healthcare costs. ICU nurses are the frontline defenders against these infections, and their knowledge is a critical determinant of prevention success. However, studies consistently show gaps in nurses' understanding of evidence-based guidelines.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 101 ICU nurses from multiple hospitals. A self-administered questionnaire was used to assess socio-demographic characteristics and knowledge of CLABSI prevention practices based on CDC guidelines. Knowledge was evaluated via 10 yes/no questions, and a total score was calculated. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics (t-tests, ANOVA) with SPSS version 26.0.
Results: The study revealed a moderate overall level of knowledge. Significant knowledge gaps were identified in fundamental daily care practices: only 46.5% knew not to change dressings routinely, 45.5% knew to use a sterile dressing, and a critical low of 35.6% knew the correct protocol for replacing administration sets for continuous fluids. Statistically significant associations were found between knowledge scores and sex (p=0.035), hospital type (p=0.001), and a trend with education level (p=0.068). Prior training did not significantly impact scores (p=0.416).
Conclusion: While ICU nurses possess foundational knowledge, significant and dangerous gaps persist in key areas of catheter maintenance. These findings underscore an urgent need for targeted, hands-on, and recurrent educational interventions focused on daily maintenance protocols to improve adherence to guidelines and enhance patient safety.
