The Relationship Between Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia Prevention Among ICU Nurses at Khmer-Soviet Friendship Hospital, Cambodia

Abstract

Introduction: Ventilator-associated pneumonia is a serious healthcare-associated infection that increases mortality, hospital stay, and healthcare costs. Nurses play an essential role in prevention; however, evidence on their knowledge, attitudes, and practices in Cambodian critical care settings remains limited. Objective: This study assessed knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding ventilator-associated pneumonia prevention and examined their relationships among intensive care unit nurses at Khmer-Soviet Friendship Hospital, Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among nurses in three intensive care units. Data were collected using a 47-item self-administered questionnaire adapted from previously validated instruments. Of 80 eligible nurses, 73 participated, yielding a 91.3% response rate. Results: The mean knowledge score was 14.2 (SD = 2.4), indicating a moderate level. The mean attitude score was 15.2 (SD = 3.1), indicating a positive attitude, while the mean self-reported practice score was 31.6 (SD = 2.1), indicating a high level. Knowledge and practice were weakly correlated (r = .26, p = .02). Knowledge and attitude (r = .10, p = .37) and attitude and practice (r = .09, p = .44) were not significantly correlated. Demographic characteristics were not significantly associated with KAP scores. Conclusion: Nurses reported positive attitudes and high preventive practices, although knowledge remained moderate. Targeted education and professional training may strengthen knowledge and support evidence-based ventilator-associated pneumonia prevention in routine clinical practice. Findings should be interpreted cautiously because of the instrument’s modest internal consistency.