Assessing the Knowledge Regarding Ventilator Mechanics and Practice of Ventilatory Care Among Nurses Working in Intensive Care Units at Children’s Hospital, Lahore

Abstract

Mechanical ventilation is a vital intervention in Intensive Care Units (ICUs), especially in pediatric settings where critically ill patients require continuous respiratory support. Nurses are primarily responsible for ventilator monitoring, airway management, alarm response, and prevention of ventilator-associated complications. Insufficient knowledge and inconsistent practices regarding ventilator mechanics can negatively affect patient outcomes and increase ICU-related complications. Objective: To assess the knowledge regarding ventilator mechanics and the practice of ventilator care among nurses working in Intensive Care Units at Children's Hospital, Lahore from November 2025 to April 2026. Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted in Medical, Surgical, Cardiac, Neonatal, and Special Neonatal ICUs at Children's Hospital, Lahore from November 2025 to April 2026. A total of 136 registered nurses were selected using non-probability convenience sampling. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 26 with descriptive statistical methods. Results: The overall knowledge score of participants was 71.4%, indicating a moderate level of knowledge regarding ventilatory mechanics. Gaps were noted in ventilator initiation criteria, extubation safety, and weaning procedures. The overall practice score was 51.5%, reflecting suboptimal adherence to evidence-based ventilatory care practices, particularly in oral care, eye care, cuff pressure monitoring, tube repositioning, and VAP prevention measures. Conclusion: ICU nurses possess moderate knowledge but inadequate practices related to ventilatory care. These findings highlight the need for regular in-service training, standardized protocols, and continuous professional education to improve ventilator management and patient outcomes in pediatric intensive care units.