Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of Chinese operating room nurses toward isolation in oncologic surgery: a cross-sectional survey

Background Surgical isolation techniques are a critical fundamental skill in oncological surgery, essential for preventing the dissemination and implantation of tumor cells. However, research on the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of surgical isolation techniques among operating room nurses remains limited. This study aims to assess the KAP levels of isolation techniques among Chinese operating room nurses during oncological surgeries. Method This single-center, cross-sectional study was conducted between October and December 2024. Operating room nurses from a tertiary hospital were recruited via non-probabilistic convenience sampling, yielding 121 valid responses through the Wenjuanxing online platform. A validated KAP questionnaire based on relevant guidelines was developed to assess participants’ KAP regarding surgical isolation techniques. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics to evaluate overall KAP levels and distribution. Result A total of 121 operating room nurses were included, comprising 18 males (14.88%) and 103 females (85.12%). Among them, 84.30% were under 40 years old, and 92.56% held a bachelor’s degree or higher. The assessment revealed that the scores for operating room nurses’ KAP (correct rate) were 69.94 ± 10.15 (69.94%), 40.95 ± 3.99, and 45.10 ± 4.46, respectively. The three lowest-scoring knowledge items were related to the principles of tumor resection, surgical incision protection, and pneumoperitoneum management during laparoscopic tumor surgery. The three lowest-scoring attitude items were: “using surgical isolation techniques to facilitate surgical progress,” “using surgical isolation techniques does not increase workload,” and “feeling satisfied with one’s own mastery of isolation techniques.” The three lowest-scoring practice items involved handling instruments that contact the tumor, handling dressings that contact the tumor, and changing gloves before closing the abdomen. Conclusion While operating room nurses maintain positive attitudes toward isolation techniques, gaps remain in their knowledge of tumor-free manipulation, instrument handling, and zone demarcation. To standardize clinical practices during tumor surgeries, regular performance audits and targeted training programs are strongly recommended.