Assessment of nursing staff knowledge and practices regarding chronic gastritis: a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted at the Bolenge General Referral Hospital (DRC)

Abstract

Introduction: Chronic gastritis affects approximately 50% of the world’s population. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), nurses play a central role in the management of this condition, although their theoretical and practical skills remain poorly documented. The aim of this study was to assess the level of knowledge and the nature of the attitudes of nursing staff at the Bolenge General Reference Hospital (HGR) regarding this condition.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from January to March 2026 among 85 nurses. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire comprising 15 items on knowledge and 12 on attitudes. Statistical analyses included univariate and bivariate approaches (Chi-square test $\chi^2$) and logistic regression.

Results: The analysis revealed that 42.4% of nurses had an overall insufficient level of knowledge, and 56.5% displayed a negative attitude, characterised in particular by low involvement in patient therapeutic education. Level of education (Master’s degree) and participation in continuing professional development were significantly associated with better practice (OR = 2.5; 95% CI: 1.4–4.6). In contrast, professional seniority, in the absence of refresher training, was not correlated with improved skills.

Conclusion: The cognitive and behavioural gaps identified fully justify the development of a local standardised care protocol and the introduction of targeted continuing professional development programmes in gastroenterology at the Bolenge General Hospital.

Keywords: Chronic gastritis, Knowledge, Attitudes, Nursing staff, DRC, Bolenge General Hospital.

Received Date: April 21, 2026

Accepted Date: May 12, 2026

Published Date: June 01, 2026

Available Online at: https://www.ijsrisjournal.com/index.php/ojsfiles/article/view/702