Knowledge and Practice of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Management Guideline among the Nurses of Tertiary Hospitals in Capital Bangladesh

Abstract

Background: Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) accounts for the majority of cases of diabetes compli-cating pregnancy. This study aimed to delineate the levels of knowledge and practice about GDM management among the nurses of Dhaka, Bangladesh. Method: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 427 nurses of three healthcare centers of Dhaka city. Data were collected by semi-structured questionnaire through face-to-face interview. All data were analyzed through descriptive and inferential statistical techniques. Knowledge and practice scores were categorized as poor (Mean+1SD) by predefined scores. Result: In this present study, mean age of the respon-Obstet dents was found 27.8 ± 5.5, and level of knowledge (both basic and technical knowledge) was found to be average where basic knowledge was 66.3% and technical knowledge was 67%. Female nurses had better basic knowledge and practice regar-ding GDM, compared to their counterparts (p=0.002). There was a significant association with the respon-dent’s gender, level of education and workplace with the basic knowledge regarding GDM management. There was a significant association with the level of education and marital status of respondents with technical knowledge and regarding proper GDM management practice only monthly family income of respondent’s shows significant association. Conclusion: The results revealed that there is a gap of knowledge and practice about the management of GDM among nurses’ capital of Bangladesh. Capacity building training should conduct regularly for young graduate nurses so that they can apply knowledge properly in the practice area.