ASSESSMENT OF CRITICAL CARE NURSES’ KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICE REGARDING ADVANCE SUCTIONING TECHNIQUE IN A TERTIARY CARE SETTING

Abstract

Background: Airway suctioning is a routine procedure in intensive care units, acute care units, and sub-acute care settings, performed when patients are unable to effectively clear respiratory secretions. Accumulation of secretions in the upper and lower respiratory tracts can result from excessive production or inadequate clearance, leading to airway obstruction, impaired airflow, and compromised gas exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide. Maintaining airway patency through suctioning is therefore essential for optimal cellular function. However, lack of interest among nurses has been identified as a key factor contributing to inadequate professional competence in suctioning practices. Factors influencing lack of interest include forced placement in intensive care units, unfavorable working conditions, poor patient recovery outcomes, and limited professional expertise. This study examined the role of lack of interest and negative attitudes toward medical errors in suctioning malpractice, with interventional errors considered as a mediating factor, guided by the Theory of Planned Behavior. Methodology: The study adopted a positivist epistemological stance, viewing reality as objective and empirically measurable. A deductive research paradigm was applied to test theoretical assumptions through observable data. A quantitative cross-sectional design was used, involving 350 nurses selected through purposive non-probability sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire to assess lack of interest, attitudes toward medical errors, interventional errors, and suctioning malpractice. Results: The findings demonstrated that lack of interest and negative attitudes toward medical errors significantly contributed to malpractice in suctioning procedures among intensive care unit nurses. Interventional errors played a mediating role in this relationship, indicating that psychological and behavioral factors influence procedural outcomes. The results highlight that beyond technical training, motivational and attitudinal dimensions are critical determinants of safe suctioning practices.Conclusion: The study concludes that lack of interest and adverse attitudes toward medical errors significantly affect suctioning malpractice, primarily through the mediating role of interventional errors. In line with the Theory of Planned Behavior, interventions should address psychological readiness and behavioral intentions in addition to skill-based training to enhance professional competence and patient safety in airway management practices.