Abstract
Background:
Electrical cardioversion is a critical, life-saving procedure used to restore normal cardiac rhythm in patients with arrhythmias. Nurses in emergency departments play a key role in assisting and performing this procedure safely. However, inadequate knowledge and improper practice among nurses can lead to complications and reduced patient outcomes.
Aim:
This study aimed to assess the knowledge and practice of nurses regarding electrical cardioversion in the emergency department of a tertiary care hospital, Lahore.
Methods:
A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Sheikh Zayed Hospital, Lahore, among 80 registered nurses working in the emergency department. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire after obtaining ethical approval and informed consent. The sampling technique was convenience sampling. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25, employing descriptive and inferential statistics, including frequency, percentage, Chi-square test, and Pearson’s correlation, with a significance level of p ≤ 0.05.
Results:
The findings showed that 46.3% of nurses had a moderate level of knowledge, while 31.3% had good knowledge regarding electrical cardioversion. In terms of practice, 48.8% demonstrated moderate performance, and 27.5% showed good practice. A significant relationship was observed between knowledge and practice (p = 0.009). Educational qualification, experience, and prior training were also significantly associated with better knowledge and practice levels.
Conclusion:
The study concluded that nurses possessed moderate knowledge and practice regarding electrical cardioversion. Continuous professional training, simulation-based learning, and refresher courses are recommended to enhance clinical competence and patient safety.