To assess intensive care unit (ICU) nurses' knowledge regarding initiation of mechanical ventilation and associated nursing procedures in hospitals of a southern in Iraq.

: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from November 20, 2024, to July 15, 2025, among 152 nurses in adult ICUs of four major governmental hospitals. A purposive sample was selected. Data were collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire with 20 multiple-choice items covering indications for mechanical ventilation, nursing procedures (pre-, intra-, post-ventilation), prevention of ventilator-associated complications, weaning, and monitoring. Knowledge scores were categorized as Poor (0.00-0.33), Moderate (0.34-0.66), and Good (0.67-1.00). Content validity was reviewed by 11 critical care nursing experts, and reliability was confirmed (Cronbach's α = 0.81).

Inclusion Criteria: A non-probability purposive sampling technique was used to recruit nurses who met the inclusion criteria, namely having at least one year of ICU experience and direct involvement in the care of mechanically ventilated patients.

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Exclusion Criteria: The nurses who have less than 1 year in ICU, as well as they were refused participant in study.

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The study population consisted of all nurses working in the ICUs of the selected hospitals, including those assigned to morning, evening, and night shifts. A total of 152 nurses participated in the study.