Enhancing Surgical Precision Through Awareness: An Assessment of Nurses’ Adherence to WHO Surgical Safety Guidelines in the Operating Rooms

Fatma Mohamed Elmansy,1 Mohamed Goda Elbqry,1 Shereen Ahmed A Qalawa,1 Samia Eaid Elgazzar,1 Fatima SO Ashmieg,1 Hebah Said M Abdelbaqi2 1Department of Medical and Surgical, College of Nursing, Qassim University, Buraydah City, Saudi Arabia; 2Department of Operating Room, Medical City, Qassim University, Buraydah City, Saudi ArabiaCorrespondence: Fatma Mohamed Elmansy, Department of Medical and Surgical, College of Nursing, Qassim University, P.O. Box: 52571, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia, Tel +966542235580, Email [email protected]: Ensuring surgical safety is a global healthcare priority, with the World Health Organization (WHO) introducing the Surgical Safety Checklist to reduce errors and improve patient outcomes. Nurses play a critical role in implementing these guidelines, particularly in the operating theatre. However, their level of awareness and adherence to such protocols remains researchable.Aim: To evaluate the level of awareness, understanding, and engagement of nurses with the World Health Organization’s Surgical Safety Guidelines in the operating theatre at Qassim University Medical City.Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 66 conveniently selected nurses was conducted between February and May 2024 using a validated and reliable online tool.Results: The majority of nurses had received prior training (93.9%) and reported the presence of the WHO Surgical Safety Checklist in their workplace (97%). Nearly half demonstrated good knowledge (45%) and adequate practice (39.2%) levels. A significant positive correlation (r = 0.58, p < 0.05) was found between knowledge and practice, with gender, experience, education, and work setting showing significant associations.Conclusion: This study highlights that while nurses demonstrate high awareness and training regarding WHO Surgical Safety Guidelines, their practical adherence remains moderate, underscoring the need for continuous institutional support and targeted improvement strategies. Continuous training, targeted interventions, and supportive work environments are essential to enhance compliance and ensure safer surgical outcomes.Keywords: nurses, patient safety, perioperative care, safety management