EFFECT OF EDUCATIONAL INTERVENTIONS ON KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICE OF NURSES ABOUT VACUUM ASSISTED WOUND CLOSURE THERAPY AT TERTIARY SECTOR HOSPITAL

Abstract

Background
Vacuum-Assisted Wound Closure (VAC) therapy is a widely used advanced wound management technique that promotes healing through controlled negative pressure. Nurses play a critical role in its application and monitoring; however, gaps in knowledge and practice can limit its effectiveness. Educational interventions can significantly enhance clinical competency and patient care outcomes.

Aim
To evaluate the effectiveness of an educational intervention on nurses’ knowledge and practice regarding VAC therapy in surgical and intensive care settings.

Methods
A quasi-experimental pre-test/post-test design was conducted among 84 staff nurses from surgical wards, plastic surgery, and surgical ICU of Sheikh Zayed Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan. A convenience sampling method was applied. Data were collected using a structured knowledge questionnaire and an observational practice checklist before and after a structured educational intervention. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 23.0, and a paired sample t-test determined the significance level at p ≤ 0.05.

Results
The mean knowledge score improved from 12.55 ± 2.51 in the pre-test to 21.48 ± 1.53 in the post-test (mean difference = 8.93, 95% CI [8.05, 9.81], p < 0.001). Good knowledge levels increased from 7.2% to 86.9% post-intervention, while satisfactory practice scores improved from 5.9% to 97.6%. All improvements were statistically significant, indicating a strong impact of the intervention.

Conclusion
The educational program was highly effective in enhancing nurses’ knowledge and practice regarding VAC therapy. Regular training, simulation-based workshops, and standardized protocols are recommended to sustain competency levels.