Enteral Nutrition Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices Among Jordanian Nurses in the Intensive Care Units

Abstract

Background: Enteral nutrition (EN) is a vital intervention in critically ill patients, providing numerous benefits, including reduced Intensive Care Unit (ICU) stay, improved bowel function, and fewer infections. Nurses play a pivotal role in standardizing EN practices to ensure optimal patient care. This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, practices, and influencing factors related to EN among ICU nurses in Jordan. Objectives: To assess ICU nurses’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding EN and identify factors influencing their performance. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design was conducted across four Jordanian hospitals, involving 200 ICU nurses who completed a self-administered questionnaire with open-ended, multiple-choice, and Likert-scale items. Data were analyzed using t-tests, ANOVA, and Pearson correlation. Results: Nurses demonstrated moderate EN knowledge (M=13.47, SD=2.68) and generally positive attitudes with acceptable practices. Knowledge was significantly correlated with both attitudes (r=0.18, p-value=0.012) and practices (r=0.42, p-value<0.001). Nurses who received prior EN training or worked in private hospitals exhibited higher practice scores (p-value<0.05). However, key gaps persisted- only 39% routinely confirmed nasogastric-tube placement via X-ray, and many did not recognize pancreatitis as an indication for EN. Conclusions: The study revealed moderate knowledge of EN among ICU nurses and variable practices, highlighting inconsistencies with evidence-based standards. Addressing these gaps through structured in-service training, clear institutional protocols, and competency-based assessments is essential to enhance nurses’ performance and ensure safer, more consistent EN delivery across Jordanian ICUs.