Assessment of Triage Knowledge Among Nurses Working in Emergency Departments of Tertiary Care Hospitals, Lahore

Abstract

Background: Triage is a cornerstone of emergency care that ensures prioritization of patients according to clinical urgency rather than social or demographic factors. The effectiveness of this process relies heavily on nurses’ knowledge, judgment, and competence. In Pakistan, where emergency departments are overcrowded and resources are limited, evidence on nurses’ triage knowledge remains scarce, particularly in tertiary care hospitals. Objective: This study aimed to assess the level of triage knowledge among nurses working in emergency departments of tertiary care hospitals in Lahore and to identify demographic factors influencing knowledge levels. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from October 2021 to March 2022 in the emergency departments of Shalamar and Services Hospitals, Lahore. A total of 100 nurses were recruited through census sampling. Data were collected using a structured, validated questionnaire covering socio-demographics and triage knowledge. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and ANOVA were applied using SPSS version 25. Ethical approval and informed consent were obtained. Results: Most participants were female (84%) and aged 20–35 years (82%). Knowledge was generally good, with 88% correctly identifying immediate care for Level 1 cases and 80% recognizing the 15-minute limit for Level 2 triage. Mean scores were higher among BSN and Post RN nurses (8.6 ± 1.4; 8.5 ± 1.3) than diploma holders (7.8 ± 1.9; p = 0.008). Younger nurses scored significantly higher than older colleagues (p = 0.042). Misconceptions persisted, particularly regarding role exclusivity in triage. Conclusion: Emergency nurses in Lahore demonstrated good overall triage knowledge, with higher competence associated with advanced education and younger age. Structured educational programs, refresher workshops, and integration of triage into nursing curricula are recommended to address identified gaps and enhance emergency care outcomes.