Status and influencing factors of knowledge, attitude and self-reported practice regarding hospice care among nurses in Hainan, China: A cross-sectional study.

Aim: This study is to investigate the current status of knowledge, attitude and self-reported practice in hospice care among nurses in Hainan, China, and then to analyse its influencing factors and mediating effects. This provides a basis for formulating scientific and standardized hospice care training programmes for nurses.

Methods: This cross-sectional study investigated knowledge, attitude and self-reported practice in hospice care among 1819 nurses in Hainan, China. Convenience sampling was used to select participants from 45 hospitals and nursing homes in 14 cities and counties from October to December 2021. A scale of knowledge, attitude and self-reported practice of healthcare providers in hospice care (Chinese version) was administered to collect data during the study period. Statistical analyses, including t-tests, one-way ANOVA, post-hoc analysis and multiple linear regression, assessed the status of knowledge, attitude and self-reported practice of hospice care in nurses and identified influencing factors. The PROCESS macro program model 4.0 was employed to explore the mediating effect of attitude on knowledge and self-reported practice in hospice care.

Results: Nurses in Hainan displayed low knowledge (mean = 7.68, SD = 3.53), moderate attitudes (mean = 88.13, SD = 12.10) and self-reported practice (mean = 51.81, SD = 9.82) in hospice care. Current employment and willingness to engage in hospice care were significant factors influencing knowledge, attitude and self-reported practice in hospice care. Attitude partially mediated the relationship between knowledge and self-reported practice.

Patient Or Public Contribution: This study focuses on nurses' knowledge, attitude and self-reported practice in hospice care and does not directly involve patients or the public. However, the findings enhance hospice care provided to patients and the broader community by improving nurses' knowledge and skills. This study informs evidence-based training programmes and interventions, benefiting those in need of hospice care services.