Nurses’ knowledge of central venous catheter care

Abstract

Introduction: The central venous catheter (CVC) and its use represents a step forward in patient treatment, but involves numerous potential complications. Applying nursing standards to clinical practice achieves high-quality nursing care. Design: Cross-sectional quantitative study using a questionnaire. Methods: Quantitative research using questionnaire technique was conducted to examine nurses’ knowledge of nursing care for central venous catheters and adherence to nursing standards. The research sample consisted of 256 nurses in selected regional hospitals in the Slovak Republic. The criterion for including nurses in the sample was the provision of CVC care in routine practice. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics and statistical testing methods. Results: The research found that nurses have certain shortcomings in nursing care for central venous catheters. Nurses know how to work correctly according to aseptic procedures (81%), but they are unsure what barrier devices are needed for dressing and treatment (25%). Conclusion: Based on the research results, it can be concluded that despite nurses’ knowledge being adequate, it is necessary to provide regular training on the principles of CVC care to reduce infections associated with healthcare.