Identifying the Alarm Fatigue Status of Nurses Working In Cardiac Intensive Care Units: A Mixed-Design Study

Abstract

Background: Recognition of alarm fatigue in cardiac intensive care units is critical to prevent possible patient harm.

Objectives: To assess the level of alarm fatigue among nurses in cardiac intensive care units, identify contributing factors, and explore nurses' suggestions for reducing alarm fatigue.

Methods: The study used a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative designs. A total of 78 nurses from 2 hospitals were included in the study, 41 of whom worked in the coronary intensive care unit and 37 of whom worked in the cardiovascular surgery intensive care unit. Sixty nurses participated in the collection of quantitative data, and qualitative data were collected until data saturation was reached. Quantitative data were collected using an occupational information form and an alarm fatigue questionnaire form, and qualitative data were collected using a semistructured interview guide. Quantitative data were collected via email, and qualitative data were collected through individual in-depth interviews.

Results: The study revealed that nurses experienced moderate levels of alarm fatigue, which correlated with greater discomfort with alarms. Through qualitative analysis, 5 themes emerged: the organizational dimension of alarms, nurses' awareness of alarms, causes of alarms, effects of alarms on nurses, and effects of alarms on conscious patients.

Conclusions: The study findings indicate that alarm fatigue among nurses in cardiac intensive care units is multidimensional, involving nurses, patients, institutions, and other stakeholders. Future studies should incorporate considerations of organizational culture and dynamics, including comprehensive training for nurses on alarm management.