Nurses’ Knowledge and Practices Regarding Corticosteroid Therapy: A Cross-Sectional Study in a Tunisian Hospital

Abstract

Background: Corticosteroids are widely prescribed for their anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties, yet they carry significant risks when misused or poorly monitored. Nurses play a pivotal role in patient education, complication prevention, and treatment monitoring. However, existing literature highlights notable gaps in nurses’ knowledge and practices related to corticosteroid therapy. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate nurses’ knowledge and practical attitudes regarding corticosteroid use in a tertiary hospital setting in Tunisia, with the goal of identifying areas for improvement in clinical practice and continuing education. Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted among 100 nurses from various departments at Farhat Hached University Hospital, Sousse, Tunisia. Data were collected in February via a 35-item self-administered questionnaire exploring demographic characteristics, theoretical knowledge, clinical practices, and perceived challenges. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 22.0. Results: Among the 100 respondents, 64% were female and 52% aged between 35–40 years. Most had 1–5 years of experience (50%) and held senior nursing positions (67%). Only 59% had previously managed corticosteroid-treated patients. While hydrocortisone was the most recognized molecule (64.3%), nearly half of the participants were uncertain about withdrawal symptoms, and 42% lacked knowledge on vaccination eligibility during corticosteroid therapy. Furthermore, 58% felt unprepared to manage these patients, and 73% emphasized the need to enhance patient awareness. Difficult patient communication (42.7%) and limited interdisciplinary collaboration were the main challenges. Multidisciplinary consultation (81%) was cited as the most effective solution. Conclusion: Despite their frontline role, nurses in this study demonstrated knowledge gaps and uncertainties regarding corticosteroid therapy. Improved access to specialized training, institutional protocols, and interdisciplinary collaboration is crucial to ensure patient safety and optimize therapeutic outcomes.