Knowledge, Attitudes, And Practices of Nurses on Heat Stroke Management During Hajj In Makkah: A Multicentric Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Heat stroke is a medical emergency that is life-threatening and preventable. It can be a serious public health concern during the annual Hajj pilgrimage because of the extreme heat and overcrowding. Nurses have a key role in early recognition, management and prevention of heat-related illness. However, limited literature is available on their preparedness to manage heat stroke during Hajj. So, the present study aims to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes and self-reported practices of nurses caring for pilgrims during Hajj in Makkah.

Methodology: This study is a descriptive cross-sectional multicentric study conducted among 377 registered nurses working in four Ministry of Health hospitals that serve pilgrims during Hajj 1446 in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. A validated, structured self-reported questionnaire was used to assess the nurses' knowledge, attitudes, and self-reported practices regarding heat stroke management. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics as well as the Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis tests. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results: Out of 377 participants, 87.5% were female, and 67.6% had a bachelor's degree. Nurses had a knowledge score of 13 of 18, an attitude score of 11 of 16 and a self-reported practices score of 5 of 6, regarding heat stroke management. Prior heat stroke education was significantly associated with higher knowledge scores (p = 0.027), and education level and professional role were significantly associated with attitude and practice scores (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Nurses who provided care for pilgrims during Hajj exhibited favourable preparedness for heat stroke management, as evidenced by their appropriate self-reported practices, positive attitudes, and adequate knowledge. Continuing education based on competency, simulation training, and periodic evaluation of competency can be suggested to strengthen evidence-based management of heat-related emergencies during future Hajj seasons.