Nurs Open. 2026 Aug;13(8):e70759. doi: 10.1002/nop2.70759.
ABSTRACT
AIM: To assess intensive care unit (ICU) nurses’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding mechanical ventilator weaning and associated factors in public hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
DESIGN: A hospital-based cross-sectional study.
METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 275 ICU nurses from 11 public hospitals in Addis Ababa between April and October 2024. Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.
DATA SOURCES: Primary data were collected using a structured questionnaire.
RESULTS: Good knowledge, positive attitudes, and good practices were reported by 56.7%, 94.9%, and 60.7% of nurses, respectively. Higher educational level was associated with positive attitudes and good practices, while more than 2 years of ICU experience was associated with good practice. Nurses aged 31-40 years were less likely to demonstrate good practice.
CONCLUSION: Although most ICU nurses demonstrated positive attitudes toward mechanical ventilator weaning, important knowledge and practice gaps remain. Educational level and ICU experience were associated with ventilator weaning practices. Strengthening nursing education and standardized evidence-based protocols may enhance critical care nursing practice.
IMPLICATIONS FOR THE PROFESSION AND/OR PATIENT CARE: Nurse-focused continuing education, competency-based training, and standardized ventilator weaning protocols may strengthen evidence-based nursing practice and support safe patient care in resource-limited ICUs.
IMPACT: This study addresses limited evidence on ICU nurses’ ventilator weaning competencies in resource-limited settings. The findings identify knowledge and practice gaps and associated professional factors. The results may inform nursing education, clinical practice, and policy development in critical care settings.
REPORTING METHOD: Reported according to the STROBE guideline for cross-sectional studies.
PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: No patient or public contribution.
PMID:42612164 | DOI:10.1002/nop2.70759
