Nurses’ Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice in Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter-related Thrombosis Prophylactic Practices.

Abstract

Background: Peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC)-related thrombosis is an important complication that can compromise patient safety and interrupt essential intravenous therapy. Nurses play a central role in identifying risk factors, providing preventive care, recognizing early signs, and educating patients. Evidence indicates that gaps remain in nurses’ PICC-related thrombosis knowledge and clinical practices, highlighting the need for competency-based training and standardized preventive approaches.

Objective: To assess nurses’ knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding PICC-related thrombosis prophylactic practices at Jinnah Hospital, Lahore.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 218 registered nurses at Jinnah Hospital, Lahore. Participants were selected through simple random sampling. Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire assessing demographic characteristics, knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding PICC-related thrombosis prevention. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and Pearson correlation were applied. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05.

Results: Of 218 nurses, 48.2% demonstrated moderate knowledge, 55.5% had a favorable attitude, and 46.8% demonstrated moderate preventive practices. Knowledge, attitude, and practice were significantly correlated. Education, clinical experience, previous PICC training, and PICC-care experience were significantly associated with KAP outcomes (p<0.05).

Conclusion: Nurses demonstrated moderate knowledge and practice with generally favorable attitudes toward PICC-related thrombosis prevention. Regular PICC-focused training, competency assessment, standardized protocols, and clinical audits are recommended.