Knowledge and Practice of Fluid Resuscitation in Acute Burn Management: A Survey of Nursing and Midwifery Students

AIM: To assess the nursing and midwifery students' knowledge and practice regarding fluid resuscitation during the acute phase of burn management. DESIGN: A cross-sectional, descriptive design was employed. METHODS: The data were collected using an online-administered questionnaire at a governmental university among nursing and midwifery students, who were selected purposively. The instrument consisted of three sections. The first section covered participants' characteristics, including age, sex, marital status, academic program, level of study, grade point average (GPA) and residency. The second section is self-reported and composed of 10 questions to assess the students' knowledge domains, and the third section is also self-reported and composed of 11 questions to assess participants' practice regarding practice; each question received a binary response based on whether or not students completed a specific practice. RESULTS: The study of midwifery and nursing students reported that they had an average knowledge (73.58%) of fluid monitoring, with 96% comprehending fluid balance, but only 28.4% being able to calculate fluids using the Parkland formula. In practice, participants demonstrated a high level of compliance (94.89%) with documentation of fluid administration; however, adherence was notably lower (85.7%) for the application of the rule of nines during assessment. PATIENT CONTRIBUTION: Midwives and nurses draw clinical judgements based on their academic and professional experience, as well as scientific facts. Theoretical knowledge can help support and improve health practices. A strong intellectual background is essential for providing appropriate care throughout the acute phase of burn management. Future research could incorporate direct observation methods to validate self-reported findings and assess the translation of theoretical knowledge into clinical practice.