Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Anesthesiologists Regarding Perioperative Neurocognitive Dysfunction: A Cross-Sectional Study

This study assessed anesthesiologists’ knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding perioperative neurocognitive dysfunction (PND). This multicenter, cross-sectional study was conducted among anesthesiologists in mainland China from February 23, 2024, to March 23, 2024. Self-administered questionnaires were used to collect demographic information and assess KAP scores. Finally, 594 nonproblematic questionnaires were included. Among the respondents, 311 (52.36%) were male, and 172 (28.96%) had received training related to PND. The mean scores for the KAP dimensions were 8.98 ± 2.32 (range: 0–13), 35.53 ± 3.00 (range: 8–40), and 28.49 ± 6.70 (range: 8–40), respectively. According to multivariable logistic regression analysis, higher knowledge scores (odds ratio [OR] = 1.099, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.012–1.194, p = 0.025), higher attitude scores (OR = 1.112, 95% CI: 1.043–1.188, p = 0.001), and participation in PND-related training (OR = 2.876, 95% CI: 1.973–4.207, p < 0.001) were associated with proactive practice. Path analysis revealed that knowledge was associated with attitude (β = 0.31, p < 0.001) and practice (β = 0.52, p < 0.001) and that attitude was associated with practice (β = 0.29, p = 0.002). Anesthesiologists in mainland China demonstrate limited knowledge but a positive attitude and a proactive approach to PND. Targeted educational interventions are recommended to improve anesthesiologists’ understanding and management of PND, enhancing perioperative care and patient outcomes.