Assessment of Chest Tube Management Knowledge among Critical Care Nurses in a Tertiary Care Cardiac Hospital: A Descriptive Study

Abstract

Objectives: Chest tubes play a critical role in managing intra-pleural pressure imbalances and preventing potentially fatal outcomes such as pulmonary collapse. The management of chest tubes is primarily the responsibility of nursing care in patients reliant on this intervention. This study aimed to assess the level of knowledge regarding chest tube management among critical care nurses at a tertiary care cardiac hospital in Karachi, Pakistan. Methodology: This descriptive cross-sectional study utilized a convenient sampling method, involving a sample size of n=120 participants. Data collection involved a structured questionnaire comprising demographic parameters followed by an 18-item questionnaire assessing knowledge of chest tube management. Knowledge scores were calculated as the percentage of correct responses to the 18 knowledge-related questions. Results: Among the 120 nurses surveyed, 59.2% (71) were male, 55% (66) were under 36 years of age, and 66.7% (80) had up to 10 years of work experience. Only 20% (24) had participated in training courses regarding thoracic diseases. The mean knowledge score was 57.3 ± 17.2, with 30% (36) categorized as having low knowledge (<50%), 65% (78) as moderate knowledge (50% to 80%), and 5% (6) as high knowledge (>80%). Conclusion: The study revealed a moderate level of knowledge concerning chest tube management among critical care nurses in a tertiary care cardiac center. There is a need for structured and comprehensive training programs focusing specifically on chest tube management to enhance nurses proficiency in this critical area of patient care.