Evaluation of the knowledge, perception, and practice of nurses regarding sarcopenia: a descriptive study.

BACKGROUND

Sarcopenia contributes to functional decline and adverse outcomes in older adults, yet little is known about nurses' knowledge and practices regarding this condition. This study described nurses' self-perceived knowledge, perceptions, and practices related to sarcopenia.

METHOD: A descriptive, online survey was used to assess 109 nurses regarding sarcopenia.

RESULTS

Over half of the nurses reported limited knowledge of sarcopenia and were unsure whether it is preventable; 15.6% believed it was not preventable. Most had not received recent sarcopenia education (94.5%), were unfamiliar with diagnostic criteria (95.4%), and did not use objective assessment tools (96.3%). Nearly half overestimated the age at which muscle mass and strength begin to decline, and only 4.6% correctly identified sex-specific grip strength cut-offs. Confusion with frailty criteria was common (23.8%).

CONCLUSION

Findings reveal substantial gaps in nurses' knowledge and practice regarding sarcopenia in older adults. Enhanced education, clinical guidelines, and standardized assessment processes are needed to support timely recognition and management.