Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices Toward Hypotension During Hemodialysis Among Nephrology and Hemodialysis Medical Staff: A Multi-Center Cross-Sectional Study.

Abstract

Objective: To explore the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of nephrology and hemodialysis medical staff regarding hypotension in hemodialysis patients.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted between March and May 2024 across nine hospitals in China. The KAP scores were collected using a structured questionnaire including demographic characteristics, knowledge, attitudes, and practices.

Results: The study cohort consisted of 205 medical staff [169 (82.44%) female], included 55 nephrologists or physicians (26.83%), 131 nurses (63.90%), and 19 related medical technicians (9.27%). The mean scores for knowledge, attitudes, and practices were 15.47 ± 5.08 (possible range: 0-20), 45.44 ± 4.41 (possible range: 10-50), and 28.80 ± 5.53 (possible range: 7-35), respectively. Spearman correlation analysis revealed significant positive relationships between knowledge and attitude (r = 0.283, P < 0.001), knowledge and practice (r = 0.605, P < 0.001), and attitude and practice (r = 0.486, P < 0.001). Path analysis showed that knowledge (β = 0.439, P < 0.001), attitudes (β = 0.330, P < 0.001), current department (β = -0.947, P = 0.025) and experience of participating in literature related to hypotension during hemodialysis (β = 1.769, P = 0.004) had effects on practice.

Conclusion: Medical staff in this study demonstrated generally adequate levels of knowledge, attitudes, and practices concerning hypotension management in hemodialysis patients. Ongoing professional development and targeted educational interventions are recommended to further enhance the competency of healthcare providers in managing hypotension among hemodialysis patients.