The knowledge of critical care nurses regarding legal liability issues

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the knowledge of critical care nurses regarding forensic and liability issues in the critical care environment in order to design an education programme on the topic. A quantitative, descriptive, contextual research design was used and convenience sampling implemented. A survey, using a questionnaire as measuring instrument, was conducted among critical care nurses in selected private hospitals in South Africa. The response rate was 85%. Validity and reliability of the research was ensured. The total average percentage achieved by the group of 171 respondents was 38.46%, which was 21.54% below the set competency indicator of 60%. Only nine respondents achieved a percentage of or above 60%. Results proved that the respondents required intensive training on the topic. The outline of an education programme to address knowledge deficiencies regarding forensic and liability issues in the critical care environment was presented in PowerPoint presentation format.