Level of knowledge and self-perceived preparedness regarding gender-based violence protocols among primary care nurses: A descriptive study.

Abstract

Introduction: Gender-based violence (GBV) constitutes a major public health problem and a challenge for healthcare systems, in which Primary Care plays a key role in early detection and intervention. Adequate training and competence among healthcare professionals are essential to ensure effective care.

Objective: To evaluate theoretical knowledge and self-perceived professional preparedness regarding GBV care protocols among Primary Care nurses working in the Galician Health Service (Sergas).

Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with 317 Primary Care nurses. Data collection was carried out using an ad hoc questionnaire administered through Google Forms® between June and September 2025. Non-probabilistic convenience sampling was employed. The study was approved by the Pontevedra-Vigo-Ourense Research Ethics Committee (code: 2025/240).

Results: The overall level of knowledge was intermediate (68.5% correct answers), with 49.7% of participants showing a high level and 41.7% a medium level. Nurses holding a specialty in Family and Community Nursing achieved significantly better results (P < .001), as did male participants (P = .016). Lower scores were observed among nurses with more than seven years of professional experience (P = .006), together with a negative correlation between age and number of correct answers (r = -0.27, Spearman). In addition, 78.7% reported low satisfaction with their level of knowledge and with the current protocols.

Conclusion: The findings suggest the existence of training gaps and a limited perception of preparedness among Primary Care nurses regarding GBV care protocols. However, these results should be interpreted with caution due to the cross-sectional design and methodological characteristics of the study. Further studies may help to better understand these training needs and guide future improvement strategies in this field.