Knowledge and Attitudes of Critical Care Unit Nurses Regarding Diabetic Ketoacidosis: Palestinian Perspective.

Abstract

Introduction: Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is an acute, progressive, and life-threatening complication of uncontrolled diabetes mellitus requiring immediate and aggressive intervention. If not treated appropriately, DKA can be fatal. Nurses' knowledge and attitudes in critical care units are crucial for providing quality care to minimize the mortality, morbidity, and complications associated with DKA. Objectives: This study assessed the knowledge and attitudes of critical care unit nurses toward DKA in the Southern West Bank hospitals. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with a convenience sample of 178 nurses working in critical care units in Southern West Bank hospitals during February and March 2024. A self-administered questionnaire, developed by the researchers, assessed nurses' knowledge and attitudes toward DKA. The survey included 18 knowledge-based questions covering causes, symptoms, diagnostics, and management, as well as 15 attitude-based items rated on a five-point Likert scale. Data analysis was performed using SPSS Version 23, employing descriptive statistics, t-tests, and one-way ANOVA to assess differences between groups. Results: The analysis indicated that the majority of nurses, 109 (61.2%), had a low level of knowledge about the management of DKA. In addition, more than half of the nurses, 96 (53.9%), exhibited a fair attitude toward the management of DKA. There was a significant difference between nurses' knowledge about DKA management and the age of the participants (p < 0.05). However, no significant difference was found between nurses' attitudes toward DKA management and their professional characteristics (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Findings highlight the need for targeted educational programs to improve nurses' knowledge and attitudes toward DKA management. Implementing standardized training, ensuring access to updated clinical guidelines, and integrating DKA management into continuous professional development can enhance patient outcomes. Future research should explore institutional barriers and effective interventions for improving nurses' competencies in DKA care.