Turkish neonatal nurses' knowledge regarding the enteral feeding in preterm infants: a descriptive, cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: Neonatal nurses play a key role in the safe and effective enteral feeding of preterm infants, but their knowledge and practices in this specific area remain largely unexamined. This study sought to evaluate neonatal nurses’ knowledge levels and practices concerning enteral feeding in preterm infants.

Methods: A total of 300 neonatal intensive care nurses working in 8 hospitals in Istanbul, Türkiye were included in this descriptive cross-sectional study. Data were collected using a sociodemographic information and enteral feeding practices form and an enteral feeding knowledge questionnaire. The 40-item enteral feeding knowledge questionnaire yields a total score ranging from 0 to 100, with higher scores indicating a higher knowledge level. Based on a 6-expert panel review, the content validity index (CVI) of the questionnaire was 0.94.

Results: The mean knowledge score was 67.12 out of 100 (SD, 8.83; range, 45–85). Older age (P=.001), longer NICU experience (P=.003), higher education level (P=.043), and having NICU nursing certification (P=.001) were associated with significantly higher knowledge levels. Correct response rates were particularly low for items about the selection of appropriate catheter size in preterm infants with extremely low birth weight, infant positioning during catheter insertion and feeding, the necessity of verifying catheter placement before each feeding, the method used to confirm correct catheter placement, feeding flow rate, assessment of gastric residuals, and maintenance of asepsis. None of the participating nurses’ NICUs used a standard protocol for enteral feeding in preterm infants.

Conclusion: The research findings point to the necessity of supporting nurses with evidence-based information on enteral feeding practices, ensuring the standardization of clinical practices, and managing enteral feeding in accordance with current guidelines.