Knowledge, Attitude, and Performance of ICU, CCU, and Emergency Wards Nurses in Kermanshah, Iran, regarding Organ Donation

Background. Providing an organ for donation is a major problem worldwide and nurses play an important role in facilitating the process of organ donation. This study is aimed at investigating the knowledge, attitude, and performance of nurses working in the ICU, CCU, and emergency wards regarding organ donation. Methods. In this descriptive-analytical study, 185 nurses working in ICU, CCU, and emergency wards were studied through systematic random sampling. The data collection was done by a self-administered questionnaire. Results. The mean knowledge of nurses was 8.9 +/- 1.4 out of 10. There was a significant relationship between knowledge of nurses regarding donation and religion and having organ donation card (P < 0.001). The mean attitude of nurses was 7.8 +/- 2.2 out of 8. The variables, including "having a donation card and marriage," were associated with attitude of nurses toward organ donation. The mean performance of nurses was 0.4 +/- 0.7 out of 3. There was a significant relationship between performance of nurses and having a donation card (P < 0.001). Knowledge was the strongest predictor of nurses' performance (P < 0.01). Conclusion. The studied nurses showed sufficient knowledge and favorable attitude toward organ donation; however, they had poor performance. It is suggested to hold training courses to improve performance of nurses. The revision of the nursing students' curriculum as future nurses should also be considered.