Evaluating Nursing Students' Venipuncture and Peripheral Intravenous Cannulation Knowledge, Attitude, and Performance

Peripheral intravenous cannulation and venipuncture are among the most common invasive procedures in health care and are not without risks or complications. The aim of this study was to evaluate the current training provided to nursing and midwifery undergraduate students. Student knowledge, attitude, practice, and performance regarding these procedural skills were assessed. A knowledge, attitude, and practices survey was disseminated to final year nursing and midwifery students as the first phase of this study. For the second phase of the study, nursing students were video recorded and then observed performing the skill of peripheral intravenous cannulation in a simulated environment. Thirty-eight nursing and midwifery students completed the survey, and 66 nursing students participated in the observation study. Descriptive statistics were performed. The mean knowledge score was 7.2 out of 15.0, (standard deviation [SD] = 2.4), and the mean attitude score was 10.20 out of 18.00 (SD = 4.79). Qualitative data from the survey were categorized to demonstrate specific areas of focus for improving the training. The mean performance score was 16.20 out of 28.00 (SD = 2.98). This study provides valuable input to developing and enhancing evidence-based curricula. It can help educators and supervisors, in both academic and clinical settings, identify areas where clinical performance and education could be enhanced.