Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) is an evidence-based intervention proven to reduce neonatal mortality by 36% and improve maternal-infant bonding. However, implementation remains inconsistent in low-resource settings like Palestine due to systemic barriers. OBJECTIVE: This study assessed KMC knowledge levels among neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) nurses in Palestinian governmental hospitals and identified predictors of knowledge. METHODS: A cross-sectional study surveyed 190 NICU nurses using a validated 20-item questionnaire (CVI = 0.92; α = 0.84). Demographic variables included age, gender, education, work experience, and prior KMC training. Knowledge levels were categorized using Bloom's taxonomy (low: < 60%, moderate: 60-79%, high: ≥ 80%). Data were analyzed via descriptive statistics, t-tests, ANOVA, and multiple linear regression. RESULTS: The mean knowledge score was 56.8% (SD = 19.5), with 44.4% scoring low. Significant predictors included prior KMC training (B = 16.656, p < 0.001), higher education (B = 6.365, p < 0.001), and older age (B = 9.934, p < 0.001). Male nurses scored lower than females (B = -4.852, p = 0.002). The model explained 81.4% of variance (R(2) = 0.814). CONCLUSION: Suboptimal KMC knowledge among Palestinian NICU nurses highlights the urgent need for structured training programs, curriculum integration, and policy reforms. Future research should address cultural and institutional barriers to improve implementation.