Effect of Standardized Educational Intervention on Nurses’ Knowledge and Practices Regarding Management of Hemodialysis

Abstract

Background: Hemodialysis is a critical life-sustaining therapy for patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), requiring comprehensive nursing knowledge and skilled clinical practice to ensure patient safety and treatment efficacy. Knowledge gaps among nurses have been associated with procedural errors, increased complications, and suboptimal patient outcomes, emphasizing the need for structured training interventions. Objective: To evaluate the effect of a standardized educational intervention on nurses’ knowledge and practices regarding the management of hemodialysis in a tertiary care hospital setting. Methods: A quasi-experimental pre-test/post-test study was conducted among 50 nurses at Ali Fatima Hospital, Lahore. Participants were selected based on defined inclusion and exclusion criteria. A four-week educational intervention comprising lectures, demonstrations, and practical sessions was implemented. Pre- and post-intervention data were collected using a validated structured questionnaire and observational checklist. Statistical analysis was performed using paired t-tests with a significance threshold of p < 0.05. Results: The mean post-intervention knowledge score increased significantly from 45.3 to 67.96 (mean difference: 22.66, p < 0.001; Cohen’s d = 1.91), indicating a large effect size. Domain-specific improvements were observed in fluid management, risk awareness, and patient safety, although knowledge related to emergency procedures and machine mechanics showed minimal or negative change. Conclusion: The standardized educational intervention significantly enhanced nurses’ knowledge related to hemodialysis management, underscoring the need for regular, targeted training to ensure safe and competent dialysis care. Integration of interactive and simulation-based learning is recommended for complex procedural domains.