Assessment of knowledge and skills of neonatal nurses on peristomal skin care

The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge and skills of neonatal nurses regarding peristomal skin care in neonates. This was a descriptive study conducted throughout three neonatal intensive care units in one hospital in Ankara, Turkey. The data was collected using knowledge and skills forms regarding stoma care. The mean scores of nurses' knowledge and skill levels regarding peristomal skin care were determined as respectively 59.09 ± 16.1 out of 100 and 53.4 ± 11.7 out of 84. No relationship was found between nurses' peristomal skill score and knowledge score (p > 0.05). The interventions used least were: using curve-tipped scissors (90.6%), recording the products used (86.7%) the signature of the nurse who performed the procedure (86.7%), and using the measuring guides (82.7%). A concern from the findings was that only 80% of nurses washed their hands before stoma care even though they were being observed. The results show there is a need for development of nurses' knowledge and skill levels in relation to peristomal skin care.