An investigation of healthcare professionals' intentions to apply current guideline information on drugs administered via feeding tubes using the theory of planned

Administering medication via feeding tubes poses notable challenges for healthcare professionals. Errors in this process can cause tube blockages, reduced drug efficacy, or toxicity. Thus, adherence to current guidelines for enteral medication administration is crucial. This cross-sectional study aimed to identify factors influencing nurses' intentions to follow these guidelines. Data were gathered from nurses in a state hospital with experience in feeding tube medication administration, using a valid Turkish scale based on the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). A paper-based survey was conducted, and multiple linear regression was used to analyze factors affecting intention scores. In total, 149 nurses participated, yielding an 80.0% response rate. Although 85.2% reported following guidelines, only 34.9% knew that modified-release tablets, 22.8% that enteric-coated tablets, and 33.6% that film-coated tablets should not be crushed. Additionally, 42.3% had never received training on medication administration via feeding tubes. Higher intention scores were significantly associated with positive attitudes, past behavior, and supportive subjective norms. In conclusion, nurses' intentions to follow current guidelines were strongly linked to their attitudes, previous experience, and perceived social support. To improve adherence, interventions should address these factors. Enhancing interprofessional collaboration may also promote safer medication practices and improve patient care quality.