ASSESSMENT OF NURSES' KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS REGARDING ENTERAL NUTRITION FOR PRETERM INFANTS

Abstract Background: Enteral nutrition is the prioritized method of administrating nutrients in preterm infants. Aim: To assess nurses’ knowledge and skills regarding enteral nutrition for preterm infants in neonatal intensive care units. Methods: A descriptive research design was conducted at El Manial University Hospital and Cairo University Children’s Hospita to meet the aim of this study. A convenience sample of 50 bedside nurses was assessed using a structured questionnaire and an observational checklist. Results: The study found that less than half of the studied nurses had a satisfactory total knowledge level regarding prematurity and enteral nutrition. None of the studied nurses achieved the satisfactory skill level iregarding enteral tube insertion or administration I'd enteral nutrition. Conclusion: The study concluded that the level of nurses' knowledge and skills regarding enteral nutrition for preterm infants was unsatisfactory. Their is no relationship between nurses' Knowledge or skills and their personal characteristics. Recommendations: Implement mandatory, competency-based training programs specifically tailored to evidence-based enteral nutrition protocols.