Effectiveness of An Educational Program on Knowledge and Practices Regarding Care of Central Venous Catheters among Dialysis Nurses

Background: Educational activities are the main pillar for prevention of central venous catheters (CVCs) related complications and a cornerstone in raising awareness among healthcare workers (HCWs). Objective: To assess knowledge and practice of nurses of Farwaniya hospital hemodialysis (HD) unit regarding care, maintenance and prevention of catheter related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs) of CVCs before and after application of an educational program. Method: An educational intervention pre-test/post-test study that was carried out over 7 months period among HD nurses of Farwaniya hospital. Knowledge and practice towards care, maintenance and prevention of CRBSIs were assessed using a questionnaire and observation checklists in the pre- and post-intervention phases. Lectures, demonstration sessions and bedside training were applied during the intervention phase. Results: The correct knowledge items regarding care and maintenance of CVCs and prevention of CRBSIs ranged from 31% to 100% and practice items ranged from 0% to 100% at the pre-intervention phase. Significant improvement in all aspects and the total mean scores of the knowledge (10.75+2.59 to 13.43+1.87, p < 0.001 ) and practice (23.72+1.62 to 26.28+1.40, p < 0.001) regarding care and maintenance of CVCs was observed among the participants in the post intervention phase after implementation of the educational program. Conclusion: The implemented educational intervention program improved nurses’ knowledge and practice about CVCs maintenance and care of dialysis patient. Provision of continuous and regular bed side training is a good alternative for those who cannot attend the prescheduled formal training.