Assessing Nurses' Knowledge of Acute ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction Management in Cardiac-Related Wards: A Survey Study

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are responsible for 1 in 5 deaths in the US and are a leading cause of mortality worldwide. Risk factors for CVDs include age, gender, race, lifestyle choices, and health conditions such as hypertension and diabetes. Acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), caused by the blockage of coronary arteries, is an acute critical manifestation of CVDs, with symptoms including chest pain, nausea, and arrhythmia. Nurses are crucial in managing patients with MI and reducing the associated morbidity and mortality. Their knowledge should be regularly updated to align with WHO and AHA guidelines. Herein, we tried to evaluate nurses’ level of information regarding myocardial infarction. Methods A survey assessing the level of knowledge among nurses working in cardiac-care-related wards about acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction was conducted at Tehran University of Medical Sciences hospitals. We used a questionnaire reviewed and validated by cardiology professors after calculating the CVR (content validity ratio) and CVI (content validity index). Results 347 nurses (68.9% females and 31.1% males) were included in the survey. Most of the participants had Bachelor’s degrees (87.1%). The mean duration of employment and total score were 10.5 years and 10.08, respectively. After scoring the questionnaire, 162 nurses (46.7%) had average scores, while 20 nurses (5.8%) had very poor scores. Those older and with more experience scored better (P < 0.001). Nurses of the Cath-Lab department had a statistically significant better score compared to other cardiac-related medical wards. Additionally, post-CCU (coronary care unit) nurses demonstrated the lowest level of knowledge. We identified no statistically significant difference between the level of knowledge and gender, shift time, and academic degree (p = 0.722, p = 0.051, p = 0.494). Additionally, Cath-lab and CCU nurses had a better understanding of door-to-balloon time. Conclusion The study evaluated nurses' scientific knowledge and ability regarding acute STEMI care in Tehran University of Medical Sciences hospitals. The results showed that overall, the nurses' knowledge level was average and acceptable. Nurses with more experience and age had better knowledge and ability, especially those working in Lab Cath and CCU departments, than the emergency room and post-CCU nurses. However, a concerning finding was that 27.1% of all nurses scored poorly in this area, indicating a need for further training to improve patient outcomes.