BRIDGING THE KNOWLEDGE GAP: CAM -ICU EDUCATION FOR ENHANCED DELIRIUM ASSESSMENT IN A PRIVATE HOSPITAL SETTING

Abstract

Aims and Objectives: The research explores the effect with regard to an educational program on Intensive Care Nurses' knowledge and skills in utilizing the Confusion Assessment Method for the Intensive Care Unit (CAM-ICU) to evaluate delirium in a private hospital environment.

Background: The early identification concerning delirium in the ICU is critical for prompt intervention and better patient outcomes. This research assessed the influence of a structured educational program on nurses' knowledge and competency in utilizing the CAM-ICU.

Design: This research was conducted in a private hospital in Malaysia using a mixed-methods approach, featuring a pretest-posttest design with both control and intervention groups, and supported by semi-structured interviews to assess the effectiveness of the educational program.

Methods: Fifty (50) nurses were randomly categorized into an intervention group (n = 25) as well as a control group (n = 25). Note that the intervention group was involved in classroom presentations, demonstrations, as well as hands-on practice with the CAM-ICU. Data were gathered pre- and post- intervention utilising the Nurses Knowledge of Delirium Questionnaire (NKD), adapted from Hare et al. (2009) and Devlin et al. (2007), along with semi-structured interviews guided by a researcher- developed tool. Quantitative data were assessed utilising a paired sample t-test, while qualitative data were examined through thematic analysis.
Results: The intervention group showed a statistically substantial increase in knowledge scores from pretest to posttest (<.05). Qualitative findings revealed three key themes, which are barriers to the CAM-ICU implementation. This includes the lack of standardized protocols; factors influencing CAM- ICU adoption, such as improved understanding of delirium and its implications; and experiences of implementing CAM-ICU, with nurses reporting increased knowledge, skills, and confidence.

Conclusion: This study provides evidence that a structured educational program may effectively enhance nurses’ knowledge skills as well as confidence in using CAM-ICU. However, organizational barriers, such as the lack of standardized protocols, need to be addressed to facilitate its successful implementation.