Understanding the Barriers and Facilitators to Effective Patient Education among Registered Nurses in Saudi Arabian Hospitals: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Objective: This qualitative study aimed to explore the barriers and facilitators to effective patient education among registered nurses in Saudi Arabian hospitals, focusing on their perceptions and experiences.
Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 24 registered nurses working in various hospital settings across Saudi Arabia. Participants were recruited using purposive sampling, and data were analyzed using thematic analysis.
Results: Four main themes emerged from the data: (1) nurses' knowledge and skills, (2) communication and language barriers, (3) organizational support and resources, and (4) cultural and social factors. Participants identified inadequate training, heavy workloads, and limited access to educational materials as major barriers, while effective communication skills, cultural competence, and supportive management were seen as key facilitators.
Conclusion: Addressing the barriers and enhancing the facilitators identified in this study is crucial for improving the quality of patient education provided by registered nurses in Saudi Arabian hospitals. Policymakers and healthcare organizations should prioritize nurse training, language support, and cultural competence to promote effective patient education and better health outcomes.