Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS) is the most common neonatal emergency and the
main cause of admission to neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). It is an acute lung disease
that results from surfactant deficiency correlating with structural and functional lung
immaturity. Assessment of the knowledge and close observation for the performance should be
done for improving the neonatal nurses' quality of care during the care of neonates with RDS.
Aim of the study was to assess nurses' knowledge versus their performance in caring for
neonates with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). Research Design: A descriptive
correlational research design was utilized. Setting: The study was conducted at the Neonatal
Intensive Care Units belonging to Ain-Shams University Hospitals, El-Fayoum University,
General and Health Insurance Hospitals. Subjects: All nurses who cared for neonates with
RDS, at NICUs in the previously mentioned settings comprised the subjects (N=60 nurse).
Tools for data collection: A structured observation checklist to assess nurses' performance and
structured questionnaire sheet to assess nurses' knowledge. Results: The study revealed that
there were statistical significant differences between nurses' knowledge and their performance.
Almost all the studied nurses had "poor" knowledge and "good" performance scores.
Conclusion: The study concluded that nurses' performance didn't base on their knowledge.
Recommendations: The study recommended continuous upgrading of neonatal nurses'
knowledge and performance through application of in-service training program. Orientation
programs for newly employee about care of neonates with respiratory distress syndrome are
mandatory.