Competency of Nurses on Electrocardiogram Monitoring and Interpretation in Selected Hospitals of Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia

Purpose: The ability of healthcare nurses to monitor and interpret electrocardiograms (ECGs) is essential for the identification of heart-related abnormalities and rapid treatment initiation. Lack of expertise of nurses in this competency may cause confusion and complications. The aims of this study were to assess the competency levels of nurses in monitoring and interpreting ECGs and to associate the knowledge with the demographic variables.

Patients and methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study design was used. A total of 156 nurses were selected from five hospitals located in Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia by computer generated simple randomization. A structured self-administered tool for knowledge and observational checklist for skills regarding ECG monitoring and interpretation was used. Tool validity and reliability were tested. Descriptive and inferential statistics, including the mean, standard deviation, and chi-square test, were applied. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results: Mean participant age was 32.59 ± 5.35 years, 30% of nurses had adequate knowledge, and the overall mean score was 17 ± 3.97. Seventy-two (46.2%) nurses correctly interpreted the ECG axis, and 76 (48.7%) could identify the Q-T interval on ECG strips. Significant associations of nurse knowledge level were detected with age (p < 0.0208), education (p < 0.0001), experience (p < 0.0001), nationality (p < 0.0002), and hospital type (p < 0.0018).

Conclusion: Most nurses had a low level of expertise in interpreting ECGs, and it will be crucial for them to improve their competence. Adequate training on ECG interpretation will enhance the proficiency of nurses and help provide appropriate care and life-saving measures to patients in emergency situations.