Factors influencing delirium nursing competency among nurses in integrated nursing care wards in South Korea: a cross-sectional study

Purpose: This study investigated the levels of delirium knowledge, delirium nursing-related stress, emotional intelligence, and delirium nursing competency among nurses in integrated nursing care wards, and aimed to identify factors influencing their competency. Methods: A descriptive survey design was employed, and data were collected from 184 nurses working in integrated nursing care wards at general hospitals located in Seoul and Daejeon, South Korea. The research instruments included measures of delirium knowledge, delirium nursing-related stress, emotional intelligence, and delirium nursing competency. Results: Delirium knowledge, emotional intelligence, and experience with delirium education were significant influencing factors, explaining 12% of the variance on delirium nursing competency. Conclusion: Based on these findings, it is recommended that future research within the field of nursing should explore a broader range of variables that may influence delirium nursing competency, particularly among nurses working in integrated nursing settings. In addition, from the perspective of foundational nursing education, it is necessary to conduct experimental studies and develop targeted educational programs aimed at reaching a deeper understanding of the various mechanisms underlying delirium.