Nursing Students' Knowledge of Gallstones: Comprehensive Management and Complications

Gallstones are a prevalent global health issue, necessitating comprehensive knowledge among nursing students for effective patient care. This study assessed nursing students' understanding of gallstone management and complications, identifying gaps in their knowledge. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with 101 undergraduate nursing students from the University of Kufa. Data were collected via a validated questionnaire, analyzing knowledge levels across socio-demographic variables using SPSS (version 26). Statistical significance was set at p ≤ 0.05. Most students (78.22%) demonstrated moderate knowledge (mean score = 0.57, SD = 0.14), with significant gaps in pathophysiology, risk factors, and rare complications. No statistically significant relationships were found between knowledge levels and socio-demographic variables (p > 0.05). While foundational knowledge exists, critical deficiencies highlight the need for enhanced education in gallstone management. Curriculum enhancements, integrated clinical scenarios, targeted interventions, and further research are recommended to bridge knowledge gaps and improve clinical preparedness.