Gambaran Pengetahuan dan Praktik Perawat tentang Perawatan Paliatif di ICU RSUD Kota Bandung

Abstract

Palliative care in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) is a comprehensive approach aimed at improving the quality of life of patients with critical and life-threatening conditions. Nurses play a crucial role in the implementation of palliative care; therefore, their knowledge and practices are important factors influencing the quality of care. However, studies examining both nurses’ knowledge and practices of palliative care simultaneously, particularly in ICU settings in Indonesia, remain limited. This study aimed to identify the knowledge and practices of nurses regarding palliative care in the ICU of RSUD Kota Bandung. This study employed a descriptive quantitative design. A total sampling technique was used, involving 41 ICU nurses as respondents. The study was conducted from August 2025 to March 2026, with primary data collection carried out between January and February 2026. The instruments used were the Palliative Care Knowledge Test (PCKT) to assess knowledge and the Palliative Care Self-Reported Practices Scale (PCPS) to assess practices. Data were analyzed using univariate analysis. The total knowledge score (PCKT) was 8.73 ± 2.80 out of a maximum score of 20. Domain scores included philosophy (1.24 ± 0.86), pain (2.37 ± 1.07), dyspnea (1.29 ± 0.90), psychiatric problems (2.20 ± 0.95), and gastrointestinal problems (1.63 ± 0.97). The practice score (PCPS) had a mean of 80.27 within a possible range of 18–90. Domain scores for practice (mean ± SD) were as follows: dying-phase care (13.15 ± 1.88), patient- and family-centered care (13.98 ± 1.77), pain (13.93 ± 1.62), delirium (12.32 ± 2.72), dyspnea (13.27 ± 2.07), and communication (13.63 ± 1.67). Palliative care practices among ICU nurses were generally high; however, their knowledge remained insufficient. This gap suggests that clinical practice may have been more influenced by experience and workplace culture rather than comprehensive theoretical understanding. Therefore, strengthening structured and continuous education and training is necessary to improve the integration of knowledge and practice in palliative care implementation in the ICU.