Evaluating the knowledge and practice of nurses regarding neonatal resuscitation in neonatal intensive care units in West Bank hospitals: a cross-sectional study

Background: Neonatal resuscitation is critical for survival, yet data on NICU nurses’ competency in Palestine are lacking. Objective: To assess knowledge and self-reported practice of neonatal resuscitation among NICU nurses in West Bank hospitals and identify associated factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted across 10 West Bank hospitals. Using proportional convenience sampling, 200 NICU nurses completed a validated questionnaire assessing knowledge (16 items) and self-reported practice (12 items) based on AHA/NRP guidelines. This study is reported in accordance with the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) guidelines. Results: Among 182 respondents (91% response rate), mean knowledge was 69.8%; 40.7% demonstrated high knowledge (⩾80%). Critical gaps included ventilation indicators (36.8%), compression-to-ventilation ratio (48.4%) and epinephrine dosing (47.8%). Self-reported practice was high (mean = 91.4%), with 90.7% reporting ‘good’ practice. Knowledge correlated moderately with practice ( r = 0.429, p = 0.001). Female gender predicted higher knowledge (β = 0.187, p = 0.021); prior training paradoxically predicted lower knowledge (β = −0.241, p = 0.003). Educational level and experience predicted better practice. Conclusion: A significant disconnect exists between self-reported practice and verified knowledge. Findings underscore the inadequacy of one-time interventions. Simulation-based training and regular competency assessment are urgently needed.