A STUDY OF NURSES' UNDERSTANDING OF PEDIATRIC MENINGITIS CARE AT MAYSAN CHILDREN'S AND MATERNITY HOSPITAL IN IRAQ

Abstract

The objective: This study aims to evaluate nurses' knowledge regarding the management of children diagnosed with meningitis by assessing their understanding. It will also look into the relationship between nurses' knowledge and a number of variables, such as age, gender, years of experience, training, and educational attainment. Methodology: A descriptive-analytical study was conducted at the Maysan Children's and Maternity Hospital in Iraq from December 25, 2021, to May 10, 2022. Data were gathered utilizing a researcher-designed questionnaire and interview methodologies. Results: The study revealed that 84.6% of the samples were aged between 20 and 29 years, constituting two-thirds of the total. The predominant demographic was female, comprising 79.5%. Concerning educational attainment, 53.8% of the participants have a nursing diploma. The majority of respondents worked in pediatric departments, and over half had 1-10 years of experience (87.2%). All participants underwent training sessions, with over fifty percent attending 1-5 sessions (100.0%). The study revealed that a significant proportion of participants (60.7%) have a high degree of knowledge regarding meningitis. Conclusion: Despite participants exhibiting substantial knowledge regarding meningitis, there is a necessity for ongoing education, especially through international training programs, to further augment abilities and expertise in the management of pediatric meningitis cases.