Knowledge, Perceptions, and Practices of Intensive Care Unit Nurses Regarding Holistic Oral Care for Critically Ill Children

Background: As there are very much limited research on evidence-based oral care in pediatric critical care, there is a clear need for this study. Objectives: This study examines the knowledge, perceptions, practices, and education of pediatric critical care nurses regarding oral care for critically ill children. Materials and Methods: It is a cross-sectional study, conducted from October 2022 to March 2023 in Babylon Governorate, specifically in four hospitals located in Hillah City. The sample comprised nurses working in critical care units (170). Statistical analysis was performed using statistical package for the social sciences software. Results: The study involved 170 intensive care unit nurses, with 105 female nurses and 65 male nurses, selected using a strata sampling method. The findings indicated that the mean score for oral health knowledge was moderate (2.14), perception also moderate (2.46), and practice score was good (2.02). There were no significant differences in comprehensive mouth care scores based on age and education qualification. Nevertheless, a significant difference was observed in the mean score for complete oral care between male and female nurses (18.37 vs. 17.85, P = 0.021). ad ditionally, significant differences were found in knowledge and practice scores based on years of experience. Conclusions: This study provides insights into the knowledge, perception, and practice of intensive care unit nurses.