Low Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Palliative Care Among ICU Physicians and Nurses in Shanghai, China

Strategic Insights -

In a study published in the Journal of Multidisciplinary Healthcare, researchers from the Department of Anaesthesia, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, conducted a cross-sectional survey of ICU physicians and nurses in Shanghai to assess their knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of palliative care. The study found that the median scores for knowledge, attitude, and practice among 203 participants were 8/18, 39/50, and 35/45, respectively, indicating a low level of KAP. The study highlights the need for specialized training and improved knowledge, attitude, and practice among ICU staff in China's aging population.

Key Takeaways:

  • 203 ICU physicians and nurses participated in the study, with median scores of 8/18, 39/50, and 35/45 for knowledge, attitude, and practice, respectively.
  • The study found that 10-15 years (OR=0.06) and 15 years (OR=0.19) of experience in the ICU and the lack of palliative care experience (OR=0.29) were associated with poor knowledge.
  • Positive attitudes (OR=1.22) and palliative care training (OR=3.25) were associated with proactive practice.
  • Knowledge directly impacted attitude (b=0.260; P=0.012) and practice (b=0.320, P=0.005).
  • The study emphasizes the urgency of improving knowledge and attitudes toward palliative care among physicians and nurses.

Statistics:

  • 203 ICU physicians and nurses participated in the study.
  • Median scores for knowledge, attitude, and practice were 8/18, 39/50, and 35/45, respectively.
  • 10-15 years (OR=0.06) and 15 years (OR=0.19) of experience in the ICU were associated with poor knowledge.
  • Positive attitudes (OR=1.22) and palliative care training (OR=3.25) were associated with proactive practice.

Sources:

  • He X, Cai H, Zhang J, Chen W, Zhu B. Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Palliative Care Among Physicians and Nurses in Intensive Care Units in Shanghai, China. Journal of Multidisciplinary Healthcare, 2025,Volume 18(Issue 1):2441-2449.
  • NewsRx. Study Data from Department of Anaesthesia Update Understanding of Cancer (Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Palliative Care Among Physicians and Nurses in Intensive Care Units in Shanghai, China). Health & Medicine Week. May 23, 2025; p 5294.