Assessment of Nurses’ Knowledge and Attitudes Toward Patient Safety Post-Cardiac Catheterization: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study in Hilla Hospitals, Iraq

Abstract

Background: Cardiac catheterization is a cornerstone diagnostic and therapeutic procedure for cardiovascular disease, yet post-procedural complications remain a serious concern. Nurses are central to recognizing and managing these complications, making their knowledge and attitudes critical to patient safety.

 Objective: This study assessed cardiac nurses’ knowledge and attitudes toward patient safety following cardiac catheterization in Hilla hospitals, Iraq, and examined whether knowledge and attitudes are correlated and associated with selected socio-demographic variables. 

Methods: A quantitative, cross-sectional, descriptive design was used. A convenience sample of 180 registered nurses working in cardiac catheterization, coronary care, and intensive care units at two governmental cardiac centers in Hilla completed a validated, self-administered questionnaire. The instrument included socio-demographic items, a 22-item knowledge scale, and a 12-item attitude scale. Reliability was acceptable, with Cronbach’s alpha values above 0.84. 

Results: Nurses demonstrated intermediate knowledge (M = 3.48, SD = 0.51) and moderately positive attitudes (M = 3.62, SD = 0.49) toward patient safety after cardiac catheterization. A statistically significant positive correlation was found between knowledge and attitudes (r = 0.34, p < 0.001). Age was significantly associated with attitude scores (p = 0.04), with younger nurses demonstrating more positive attitudes. Participation in training programs was significantly associated with both knowledge and attitudes (p < 0.05). 

Conclusion: While nurses demonstrated adequate knowledge and positive attitudes toward patient safety post-cardiac catheterization, targeted educational interventions are needed to address specific knowledge gaps and further strengthen safety practices in Iraqi cardiac care settings.