International Journal of Innovative Research in Health Science

Background: Material management is an essential component of hospital administration that ensures the availability and effective utilization of healthcare supplies and equipment. Aim: To assess the knowledge regarding material management among staff nurses working at Government Rajaji Hospital, Madurai. Methods: A quantitative research approach with a non-experimental descriptive design was adopted for the study. A total of 100 staff nurses were selected using a non-probability consecutive sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured knowledge questionnaire consisting of socio-demographic variables and questions related to principles of material management, inventory control, storage, distribution, and condemnation. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data analysis. Results: The findings revealed that 84% of the staff nurses had adequate knowledge and 16% had moderate knowledge regarding material management, while none had inadequate knowledge. Significant associations were found between knowledge level and age (p = 0.009), current working department (p = 0.005), and type of employment (p = 0.008). No significant association was observed with gender, educational qualification, clinical experience, experience in the present station, or source of knowledge. Conclusion: The study concluded that most staff nurses possessed adequate knowledge regarding material management. Regular educational programs and training initiatives can further enhance nurses' competencies and promote efficient utilization of healthcare resources.