Assessment of Knowledge Regarding Neutropenic Patients Among Oncology Nurses

Abstract

Neutropenia is a frequent and potentially life-threatening complication among oncology patients, particularly those receiving chemotherapy. Early identification of infection risk and implementation of evidence-based preventive strategies are essential to reduce morbidity and mortality. Oncology nurses play a pivotal role in monitoring neutropenic patients and implementing infection-control measures. However, variability in nurses’ knowledge may compromise patient safety. This study assessed oncology nurses' knowledge of neutropenic patients in tertiary care hospitals in Lahore, Pakistan. Objective: To assess the level of knowledge regarding neutropenic patients among oncology nurses in selected public and private tertiary care hospitals. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from March to August 2025 in oncology departments of selected tertiary care hospitals in Lahore. A purposive sample of 150 registered oncology nurses directly involved in patient care was recruited. Data were collected using an adopted structured questionnaire comprising 30 true/false knowledge-based items covering definition, causes, clinical manifestations, infection control measures, environmental precautions, dietary considerations, oral care, and nursing management of neutropenic patients. Descriptive statistics were computed using SPSS version 25. Knowledge scores were categorized into low, average, and high levels based on predetermined criteria. Results: Among 150 participants, 56.0% were aged 21–30 years, and 91.3% were female. Regarding qualification, 39.3% held BSN/Post RN degrees, 35.3% had diplomas, and 25.3% had specialization training. High correct response rates were observed for daily skin and mucosa assessment (94.0%), stomatitis as a common complication (92.7%), use of personal protective equipment (90.0%), patient and family education (90.7%), and requirement of private rooms (88.7%). Lower correct response rates were noted for room cleaning sequence (48.7%), glycosuria as a sign of infection (50.0%), oral care with sodium bicarbonate (54.7%), and identification of infection signs (56.0%). Overall knowledge classification revealed that 40.0% of nurses had low knowledge, 26.0% had average knowledge, and 34.0% demonstrated high knowledge regarding the management of neutropenic patients. Conclusion: A substantial proportion of oncology nurses demonstrated low to average knowledge regarding neutropenic patient management. Although awareness of core infection-control measures was generally adequate, notable gaps persisted in specific clinical and preventive domains. Targeted continuing education programs and structured competency-based training may help strengthen oncology nursing practice and improve patient safety outcomes.