KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICES OF NURSES IN POST-OPERATIVE WOUND CARE AT A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL IN ABBOTTABAD, PAKISTAN

Abstract

Surgical site infections (SSIs) remain a major cause of preventable postoperative morbidity and mortality worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Nurses play a central role in post-operative wound care, and adherence to evidence-based practices is critical for SSI prevention. However, gaps frequently exist between recommended guidelines and routine clinical practice. This study aimed to assess nurses’ knowledge and observed practices related to post-operative wound care at a tertiary care hospital in Abbottabad, Pakistan, and to examine associations between knowledge, practice, and selected professional characteristics. A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted among 79 registered nurses working in surgical units. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire to assess knowledge and self-reported practices and a standardized observational checklist to evaluate actual wound care practices. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, independent-samples t tests, and one-way analysis of variance were used for data analysis. Nurses demonstrated moderate knowledge (M = 5.08, SD = 1.61) and moderate observed practice (M = 5.58, SD = 1.42). Highest compliance was observed for ensuring patient privacy and preparing a clean working area, while lower compliance was noted for hand hygiene before the procedure and correct wound cleaning technique. Knowledge was moderately positively correlated with observed practice (r = .39, p < .001). Nurses who had received recent training demonstrated significantly higher knowledge and practice scores. The findings indicate that although nurses possess a reasonable foundation of knowledge, critical gaps persist in essential infection-prevention practices. Targeted training, standardized protocols, and supportive institutional policies are required to strengthen nursing practice and reduce preventable SSIs.