Effect of a training program on pediatric nurses’ knowledge and practice regarding medication administration errors in Sudan2024

Medication administration errors (MAEs) represent a major threat to pediatric patient safety worldwide. Children are particularly vulnerable due to weight-based dosing, developmental differences, and communication challenges. In low-resource settings, limited training and inadequate safety systems further increase the risk of preventable harm. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a structured training program on pediatric nurses’ knowledge and practice regarding medication administration errors in governmental hospitals in Shendi Locality, Sudan. Methods: A quasi-experimental one-group pretest–posttest design was conducted among all nurses working in pediatric departments (n = 130) across four governmental hospitals. Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire to assess nurses’ knowledge and an observational checklist to evaluate actual practice during medication administration. A comprehensive educational program consisting of theoretical sessions and practical demonstrations was implemented over three months. Post-intervention assessments were conducted three months after completion of the program. Descriptive statistics, paired t-tests, and Pearson’s correlation were used for data analysis. Results: Significant improvements were observed in both knowledge and practice following the intervention. The proportion of nurses achieving excellent knowledge levels increased from less than 85% at baseline to more than 93% post-intervention. Practical performance improved markedly from less than 55% before the program to over 98% after implementation. Statistically significant differences were found between pre- and post-intervention scores (p < 0.001). A strong positive correlation was identified between nurses’ educational level, years of experience, and knowledge scores. Conclusion: The training program demonstrated a substantial positive effect on pediatric nurses’ knowledge and practice related to medication administration safety. Continuous, structured educational interventions are recommended to sustain improvements and enhance pediatric patient safety, particularly in low-resource healthcare settings.