Nurses' knowledge of evidence-based practice of pre-operative fasting

Abstract

The aim of this descriptive study was to establish the nurses' knowledge of evidence based practice of pre-operative fasting. Data was obtained through the use of a questionnaire which was administered to 15 nurses, who were selected using a simple random sampling design. This study indicated that nurses had good knowledge on pre-operative fasting. The results also suggested that the planning of fasting time was not performed on individual basis. The majority of nurses acknowledged that the practice of pre-operative needs to be more evidence based however they all agreed that there were difficulties in implementing solid and fluid fasting time based on research findings. It is recommended that there should be better collaboration between surgeons, anaesthetists and nurses in deciding what pre-operative policy is needed. Information should be given verbally with written supplements to the patients on the rationale behind pre-operative fasting. It is also recommended that continuing education for qualified staff should be given on pre-operative fasting to update and encourage them to implement research findings in this area.