Exploring the competencies of inflammatory bowel disease nurses in Italy: a cross-sectional survey

Abstract

Background: Nurses are essential in the care of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, the competencies of IBD nurses in Italy still need to be studied. This research assessed Italian IBD nurses' fundamental and advanced skills, providing a baseline for future professional development.

Methods: This cross-sectional study used an online survey developed by a multidisciplinary expert panel, including gastroenterologists and IBD nurse specialists. The 53-item survey covered sociodemographics, professional characteristics, institutional context and competencies (fundamental and advanced), assessed via a 5-point Likert scale based on Nurse European Crohn and Colitis Organisation guidelines. Distributed nationwide from June to August 2024, descriptive statistics summarized participants' profiles, while inferential analyses, including Pearson's correlations and ANOVA, explored associations between competencies and variables such as experience, education, and institutional factors.

Results: The study analyzed responses from 50 IBD nurses, predominantly female (92%), with a mean age of 48.38±9.7 years. Fundamental competencies showed consistently higher mean scores compared to advanced competencies. High proficiency was noted in establishing empathetic relationships and recognizing the emotional impact of IBD (mean score: 4.06/5). Advanced competencies with the highest scores included caregiver education and multidisciplinary support (3.56/5 and 3.40/5, respectively). Significant correlations were observed between years of IBD-specific experience and competencies such as therapeutic management and stress handling.

Conclusions: Italian IBD nurses demonstrate fundamental solid and moderate skills in advanced competencies. Enhancing educational programs and multidisciplinary collaboration can improve the quality of care for IBD patients. Future studies should address integrating digital health tools to support self-management and patient outcomes.

Keywords: Inflammatory bowel disease; competence; multidisciplinary care team; nurse; nursing competency.

Figure 1

Fundamental skills

Figure 2

Advanced skills IBD, inflammatory bowel disease