Abstract:

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the awareness and knowledge levels of intensive care nurses about patient follow-up. Methods: This descriptive study was conducted with 87 nurses working in the intensive care units of a training and research hospital in Istanbul between 01 May and 01 June 2021. The data were collected using the "Sociodemographic Characteristics Form", "Intensive Care Nursing-Patient Follow-up Awareness Form" and "Intensive Care Nursing-Patient Follow-up Knowledge Form" prepared by the researchers. Results: The mean age of the intensive care nurses participating in the study was 25.47±2.58 years, the average working time in the profession was 3.08±2.13 years, and the average working time in the intensive care unit was 2.25±1.58 years. The mean score of the awareness level of nurses regarding patient follow-up was 100.54±11.66, and the mean knowledge level score was 69.98±15.21. As the duration of working time in the profession and in the intensive care unit increased, the level of knowledge of the nurses about patient follow-up also increased (p<0.05). Conclusion: Although the majority of nurses had a high level of awareness about patient follow-up in the intensive care unit, their level of knowledge was determined to be moderate. Regular theoretical and practical training programs should be organized for the elements of patient follow-up in the intensive care unit, and nurses should be encouraged to participate in certificate programs.

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