ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that demands quick and cautious interventions from nurses, as they are the frontline caregivers, so they are essential in recognizing early signs of sepsis, initiating prompt healthcare interventions, and providing comprehensive care to improve patient outcomes. This study aimed to examine the predictors of perceived barriers and facilitators of applying evidence-based sepsis guidelines among critical care nurses. METHODS: This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on a convenience sample of 180 nurses working in critical care settings (ICU, critical care unit, ED, burning unit, dialysis unit) at a university hospital. A valid and reliable questionnaire was used to examine the predictors of perceived barriers and facilitators of applying evidence-based sepsis guidelines among critical care nurses. RESULTS: This study revealed that the main barriers faced by critical care nurses are lack of sepsis recognition during observational rounds and delay in sepsis diagnosis by medical staff. For the most common facilitators of applying Sepsis Six guidelines, the participating nurses reported the presence of a written tool/protocol for sepsis identification and management. CONCLUSIONS: The study emphasized the importance of the presence of evidence-based protocols for sepsis assessment and management and nurses' compliance with guidelines. Ongoing education training for nurses and providing step-by-step written checklists are a cornerstone to improving nurses' knowledge and the practical skills of early identification and management of sepsis.
ABSTRACT
AIMS: Cardiovascular disease burden is increasing globally, pressuring nursing staff to deliver high-quality care across a diverse range of treatment areas. As such, an evaluation of the educational preparation of nurses is needed. To determine the current role, scope of practice, education level, and needs of cardiovascular nurses working across the European Society of Cardiology (ESC)-affiliated countries. METHODS AND RESULTS: A short survey was distributed in paper (EuroHeartCare 2018) or electronic format to nurses delivering cardiovascular care. A total of 876 cardiovascular nurses from 26 ESC-affiliated countries completed the survey. Most respondents (79%), were educated to at least bachelor level, with 46% having a masters or doctorate, and were highly motivated to continue their educational development. Despite this, a large number (44.3%) of respondents believed they were not fully prepared for their job. The main areas where further education was requested included acute care in cardiovascular disease (CVD) and CVD risk factor management. Face-to-face courses/training were the most requested delivery mode, followed by E-learning-which appears to be underutilized in this population. Awareness of the existing curricula for cardiovascular nurse education was minimal, and therefore these resources require further promotion and implementation. CONCLUSIONS: This international sample of cardiovascular nurses was generally educated to degree level and motivated to improve their cardiovascular knowledge. Many believed they were underprepared for their role, highlighting the need for increased investment in education. This should be focused on specific needs and delivered using a face-to-face, E-learning, or blended-learning format. Furthermore, increased signposting of existing resources is required.
