Knowledge of diabetes among nurses of primary healthcare facilities in China: a cross-sectional survey study

Background Nurses with adequate knowledge and experience can reduce hospitalization duration and complications and increase the satisfaction of patients with diabetes. To the best of our knowledge, no study has assessed the current state of diabetes knowledge among nurses in PHC facilities in China. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted using self-administered questionnaires among nurses affiliated with 12 township health centers in Pingjiang City, Hunan Province from October 4 to December 15, 2024. Knowledge levels were determined by calculating questionnaire scores and analyzed using the independent-samples t -test and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) test. And factors affecting knowledge levels were analyzed using multiple linear regression models. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25. Results A total of 223 nurses completed the survey. The mean diabetes knowledge score was 16.94 ± 3.27 (out of 23 points). Regression analyses indicated that sex, professional title, and department significantly influenced knowledge scores ( p < 0.05). Conclusion Nurses from PHC facilities in China demonstrated a moderate level of diabetes-related knowledge. Inappropriate knowledge negatively affects the care of diabetic patients. Health authorities and hospital administrators should implement targeted interventions to improve nurse education in PHC facilities to facilitate the provision of high-quality and comprehensive diabetes care.