KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICES OF CARDIOPULMONARY RESUSCITATION AMONG NURSES

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a critical life-saving skill that significantly impacts patient outcomes during cardiac emergencies. Nurses, being at the forefront of emergency care, play a vital role in performing CPR effectively. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of nurses regarding CPR in a tertiary care hospital in Lahore, Pakistan. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 124 nurses working in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and emergency departments of a tertiary care hospital. Data were collected using a structured, pre-validated questionnaire consisting of demographic information, knowledge assessment, attitudes, and practices related to CPR. Statistical analysis, including descriptive and inferential methods, was performed using SPSS version 26. Results: The study revealed that 97.1% of nurses had received CPR training, and all participants acknowledged its importance in supporting breathing and circulation. However, knowledge gaps were identified in specific areas, such as correct compression depth and timing of pulse checks. Positive attitudes toward CPR were evident, with 54.3% agreeing that mouth-to-mouth ventilation should be performed if no mask is available. Despite this, only 36.7% of nurses consistently maintained proper patient positioning during CPR, and 57.1% did not adhere to head-tilting protocols. Education and experience were significantly associated with better knowledge and practices (p < 0.05). Conclusion: While nurses demonstrated adequate knowledge and positive attitudes toward CPR, significant gaps in specific practices were identified. Targeted training programs, regular competency assessments, and policy reforms are essential to enhance nursing competencies and ensure effective CPR performance, ultimately improving patient outcomes.