Date of Award
11-15-2023
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Master of Science in Nursing (MScN)
First Supervisor/Advisor
Dr. Salma Rattani
Department
School of Nursing and Midwifery, Pakistan
Abstract
Background: Central venous catheters (CVCs) are integral to modern healthcare, facilitating critical treatments. However, the risk of complications, particularly infections, necessitates strict adherence to central line maintenance protocols. This study explores the compliance of nurses in executing these protocols.
Purpose: In a tertiary care facility in Karachi, Pakistan, this study sought to evaluate nurses' adherence to each item on the central line management checklist as well as the checklist's total adherence in the Special Care Units.
Method: A total of 119 registered nurses were assessed, using a quantitative structured observational design for central line handling in adult medical surgical special care unit at a tertiary care hospital. The study used Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) central line handling policy tool, the inter-rater reliability of which was tested and each step showed the Kappa value of 0.6 to 1.00. Ethical approval was obtained from AKUH ethical review committee (ERC), prior to the study. Data was analyzed using epi-data info version 7.2.4 and SPSS version 21.
Finding(s): An overall compliance rate of central-line handling in special care units is assessed, revealed that 30% of respondents exhibit full compliance, 23% are compliant, 9% are partially compliant, and 38% are non-compliant. All the other practices collectively suggest a strong and significant association between the choice of duty shift (morning, evening, v night) and the actions taken. This data indicates that the duty shift may influence whether nurses perform these actions.
Conclusion: The maintenance of central lines is a vital aspect of patient care in healthcare settings. Adherence to central line maintenance guidelines is essential to prevent infections and enhance patient safety. Study findings indicated that some nurses demonstrate full or partial compliance, while others exhibit non-compliance. By addressing areas of non-compliance and standardizing best practices, healthcare institutions can significantly reduce the risk of central line-associated infections and ultimately improve patient safety at their institutions.
Recommended Citation
Ali, A. A. (2023). Nurses' compliance with central line maintenance (Handling) guidelines at a tertiary care setting in Karachi, Pakistan- A descriptive cross-sectional study (Unpublished master's dissertation). Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan.