Sepsis knowledge, skills and attitudes among ward-based nurses

Abstract

Background: Nurses are in a prime position to identify sepsis early by screening patients for sepsis, a skill that should be embedded into their daily practice. However, compliance with the sepsis bundle remains low. Aims: To explore the effects of sepsis training on knowledge, skills and attitude among ward-based nurses. Methods: Registered nurses from 16 acute surgical and medical wards were invited to anonymously complete a questionnaire. Findings: Response rate was 39% (98/250). Nurses with sepsis training had better knowledge of the National Early Warning Score 2 for sepsis screening, and the systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) criteria, demonstrated a more positive attitude towards sepsis screening and management, were more confident in screening patients for sepsis and more likely to have screened a patient for sepsis. Conclusions: Sepsis training improves nurses' attitudes, knowledge and confidence with regards to sepsis screening and management, resulting in adherence to evidence-based care, and should become mandatory for all clinical staff.