A Study to Evaluate the Effectiveness of Planned Teaching Program on Knowledge Regarding Arterial Blood Gas Interpretation Among Staff Nurses Working in Medical Surgical Wards of a Selected Hospital, Tumkur, Karnataka

Abstract

Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) analysis is an essential diagnostic procedure used to evaluate respiratory function, oxygenation, and acid–base balance, particularly in critically ill patients. Competent interpretation of ABG findings is crucial for nurses working in medical–surgical settings, as inadequate knowledge may delay timely and appropriate interventions. “This study aimed to assess the existing knowledge of staff nurses regarding ABG interpretation, determine the effectiveness of a structured Planned Teaching Programme (PTP), and examine the relationship between baseline knowledge and selected demographic variables.” A quantitative, one-group pre-test–post-test pre-experimental design was employed among 40 staff nurses selected through purposive sampling at District Hospital, Tumkur. Knowledge was measured using a 30-item structured questionnaire before and seven days after the planned teaching program. Statistical analysis using descriptive and inferential methods revealed a substantial improvement in knowledge scores, The mean pre-test score was 1.75 (SD = 0.433), with 75% of nurses demonstrating moderately adequate knowledge and 25% showing inadequate knowledge, and none achieving an adequate level. In contrast, the post-test mean score increased to 2.475 (SD = 0.499), with 47.5% of nurses achieving adequate knowledge and 52.5% moderately adequate, and no participants remaining in the inadequate category. The mean difference of 0.725 was statistically significant (t = 6.95, p < 0.001). Hence the research hypothesis H1, there will be statistically significant differences in knowledge scores between the pretest and the post test scores among staff nurses working in medical surgical wards was accepted. While no significant association was observed between baseline knowledge and most demographic characteristics. The findings indicate that the structured teaching programme was highly effective in enhancing nurses’ knowledge of ABG interpretation.