Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) of inpatient nursing staff regarding bowel preparation before colonoscopy: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: Instructions for bowel preparation are primarily provided to admitted patients by inpatient nurses. We conducted a cross-sectional study aimed to determine the extent of knowledge and practice of inpatient nursing staff on colonoscopy preparation at King Abdulaziz University Hospital (KAUH). Method: A total of 171 nurses were involved in the study, and 136 of them responded to the questionnaire. Result: (80.9%) of participants identified the color of the stool that reflects a patient suitable for a colonoscopy. 64.7% of respondents, agreed that the scheduled timing of colonoscopy has an impact on how they provide bowel preparation instructions. Moreover, 13.2% of respondents considered that patients should be instructed to follow low fibers and clear liquids before having a colonoscopy. The majority of nurses (85.3%) agreed the ideal time to give inpatients their first dose of split bowel preparation is one day before a colonoscopy. Conclusion: According to the current study's findings, the participating nurses had a fair level of knowledge and practice regarding bowel preparation before colonoscopy.