Assessment of knowledge regarding identification and management of hypoglycemia among staff nurses in intensive care units and emergency units: A cross-sectional study

Objectives: Hypoglycemia is a common and potentially life-threatening condition that requires prompt identification and appropriate management to prevent serious complications. Staff nurses working in critical care and emergency settings play a crucial role in the early recognition and timely management of hypoglycemia to ensure patient safety. Therefore, the present study was undertaken to assess the level of knowledge regarding the identification and management of hypoglycemia among staff nurses and to determine the association between knowledge and selected sociodemographic variables. Material and Methods: A quantitative research approach with a non-experimental cross-sectional descriptive survey design was adopted for the study. The study was conducted among 60 staff nurses working in the intensive care unit and emergency units of a selected hospital in Bengaluru. Participants were selected using a non-probability purposive sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire consisting of 18 items. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation, along with inferential statistics using the Chi-square test. Results: Among the 60 staff nurses, 53 (88.33%) had inadequate knowledge, while 7 (11.67%) had moderately adequate knowledge, and none of the participants demonstrated adequate knowledge regarding the identification and management of hypoglycemia. The mean knowledge score was 6.78 ± 1.17. A statistically significant association was observed between knowledge scores and educational qualification (χ 2 = 6.55, p < 0.05) as well as designation (χ 2 = 8.534, p < 0.05). Conclusion: The findings revealed that the majority of staff nurses had inadequate knowledge regarding hypoglycemia identification and management. Educational qualifications and professional designations significantly influenced knowledge levels. Regular in-service education and training programs are recommended to enhance nurses’ competency and improve patient safety outcomes.