Knowledge, Skills, and Attitude of Nurses in Cancer Care in a Selected Hospital in Quezon City

Abstract

The increasing complexity of cancer care requires nurses to demonstrate adequate knowledge, clinical skills, and professional attitudes to ensure safe, holistic, and patient-centered care. This study assessed the knowledge, skills, and attitudes (KSA) of nurses in cancer care in a selected tertiary government hospital in Quezon City, Philippines, and examined differences and relationships across demographic variables. Guided by Benner’s Novice-to-Expert Model, Watson’s Theory of Human Caring, and the Knowledge-Skills-Attitudes framework, the study employed a quantitative descriptive–correlational research design. A total enumeration of 188 registered nurses involved in oncology-related care participated in the study. Data was collected using a researcher-developed, expert-validated questionnaire measured on a five-point Likert scale. Descriptive statistics, t-tests, ANOVA, and Pearson correlation were utilized to analyze the data. Results revealed that nurses demonstrated Advanced Beginner levels in knowledge (M = 1.98) and skills (M = 2.12), while attitudes reflected moderately developing professional readiness. Significant differences in KSA domains were observed across selected demographic variables, particularly in experience and unit assignment. Correlation analysis showed strong positive relationships among knowledge, skills, and attitudes, indicating that improvements in one competency domain contribute to overall oncology nursing competence. Nurses with higher educational attainment demonstrated stronger knowledge levels, while clinical exposure influenced skill development and professional attitudes. The findings highlight the need for structured oncology nursing training programs, competency-based education, and continuous professional development initiatives. Strengthening institutional policies and targeted capacity-building interventions may enhance oncology nursing competencies, improve patient outcomes, and support quality cancer care delivery in tertiary healthcare settings.