ASSESSMENT OF NURSES’ KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDES, AND PRACTICES TOWARD FALL PREVENTION IN KING FAISAL SPECIALIST HOSPITAL AND RESEARCH CENTRE–RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
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Keywords
Fall prevention; nursing knowledge; attitudes and practices; patient safety; Saudi Vision 2030; King Faisal Specialist Hospital; cross-sectional study
Abstract
Falls remain a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide and are a critical indicator of patient safety in hospital environments. This study assessed nurses’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) toward fall prevention at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSH&RC) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 331 registered nurses directly involved in patient care. Data were collected using a validated KAP questionnaire distributed electronically via REDCap. Reliability testing confirmed strong internal consistency for knowledge (α = 0.832) and attitudes (α = 0.866), with moderate consistency for practices (α = 0.555). Descriptive and inferential analyses, including Kruskal–Wallis and Spearman’s correlation, were applied. The findings revealed high levels of knowledge (mean score = 0.87) and positive attitudes (mean score = 0.87) toward fall prevention, with most participants consistently identifying risk factors and recognizing prevention as a professional responsibility. Practices were also reported at high levels, though challenges included patient resistance and workload pressures. Female nurses scored significantly higher in knowledge (p = 0.028) and practices (p = 0.017). Attitudes correlated strongly with practices (ρ = 0.513, p < 0.001), highlighting the motivational role of perceptions in driving preventive behaviors. The study concludes that while knowledge and attitudes are strong, bridging the gap to consistent practice requires targeted training, simulation-based learning, digital tools, and leadership-driven safety culture. These findings provide evidence to strengthen institutional policies and align fall prevention strategies with Saudi Vision 2030 priorities for healthcare excellence.
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