A Study of ICU Nurses’ Practices in Administering Parenteral Nutrition: Cross-Sectional Analysis
Abstract
Background: Parenteral nutrition (PN) is a critical intervention for unconscious ICU patients who cannot meet their nutritional needs through oral or enteral routes. Effective administration of PN requires competent nursing practices and strict adherence to safety protocols to prevent complications. However, in many settings, particularly in developing countries, the standard of nursing practice in this area remains under-researched and suboptimal.
Objective: To assess the practices of ICU nurses in administering PN to unconscious patients, examine the relationship between their practices and demographic/employment characteristics, and identify areas needing intervention.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted between September 9, 2024, and February 21, 2025, at Hilla Teaching Hospital’s ICU. A purposive sample of 120 nurses participated. Data were collected using an observational checklist composed of 23 items related to PN procedures. The tool’s reliability was confirmed (Cronbach’s α = 0.84). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26.
Results: Pre-procedure practices had a general mean of 1.45, indicating poor performance, especially in hand hygiene (1.06), patient identification (1.18), and allergy assessment (1.33). Post-procedure practices showed better outcomes with a general mean of 1.73, reflecting a fair level. Significant correlations were found between practice and ICU experience (p = 0.024, R = 0.202), and shift type (p = 0.041, R = -0.175). Gender also significantly influenced practice (p = 0.041), while education level and special training showed no significant correlation.
Conclusion: ICU nurses displayed inadequate adherence to critical pre-procedural PN protocols, with better compliance in post-procedural tasks. Experience and shift timing significantly impacted performance. Regular training, policy revision, and workload redistribution are recommended to improve practice quality and patient safety.