Dementia knowledge and attitudes of nursing undergraduate students-association between lifestyle background and practical training experience

Objective

To clarify the association between dementia knowledge and attitudes, lifestyle backgrounds, and practical training experiences of nursing students, and examine the basic nursing education for dementia.

Participants and Methods

A total of 412 first-to-fourth-year students at Nursing College A participated in the study. A cross-sectional survey was conducted regarding knowledge (15 questions) and attitudes (15 questions) related to dementia.

Results

Consent was obtained from 158 individuals (The response rate was 38.3%). Significant items regarding dementia attitudes and cohabitation experiences were identified. Additionally, significant items regarding attitude toward dementia and care providing experiences were identified.

Conclusion

Associations among attitude toward dementia, cohabitation experiences, and care providing experiences were determined. Knowledge and attitudes regarding dementia improved with practical training experience.

Readiness of Medical Students and Budding Doctors About the LGBTQ+ Community: A Cross-Sectional Study From India

INTRODUCTION

The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer or Questioning (LGBTQ) community has always faced discrimination across the globe. Due to a lack of information in medical curricula and no training or sensitization of doctors towards their health needs, there are numerous health disparities faced by this community. Negative attitudes and inadequate knowledge may also cause students to feel hesitant to treat patients in the community. The present study thus aims to evaluate the attitudes and knowledge of medical students and interns towards LGBTQ+.

METHODOLOGY

The present study is a cross-sectional observational study where a self-administered questionnaire was shared with the medical students of India via an online platform. The collected data was then analyzed using Microsoft Excel STATA version 14.0 (StataCorp LLC, Texas, USA).

RESULTS

A total of 790 responses were analyzed. 67.2% of respondents had an overall positive attitude, with students under the age of 20, female students, and medical students being more likely to have a positive attitude towards the community. 60.7% of the respondents had satisfactory knowledge, with interns being more likely to have more knowledge than students. The respondents with better knowledge were more likely to have a positive attitude.

CONCLUSION

The study participants had satisfactory knowledge, and the majority had a positive attitude towards the LGBTQ+ community. However, to clear misconceptions regarding the LGBTQ+ community, the medical curriculum must be updated to include more information and provide proper training and sensitization in order to ensure optimum healthcare for all, regardless of sexual orientation and identity.

Knowledge, perceptions and practices on healthcare waste management and associated occupational health hazards among healthcare professionals in the Colombo District, Sri Lanka: a cross-sectional study

Background

Proper Healthcare Waste (HW) management is directly influenced by the knowledge and attitudes of Healthcare Professionals (HCP). However, studies that characterize the knowledge and practices of HCP on HW management are limited in Sri Lanka. This study was conducted to characterize the knowledge, perceptions and practices of HCP on the management of HW and to determine the risk factors influencing HW related occupational health hazards in the Colombo District of Sri Lanka.

Methods

A total of 407 HCP were recruited as the study population from selected hospitals in the Colombo District. Information on socio-demographic factors, knowledge, attitudes and practices on HW management were gathered using an interviewer-administrated questionnaire. The Binary Logistic Regression (BLR) was used to determine the socio-economic risk factors associated with the occurrence of HW related health issues among the respondents.

Results

The majority of respondents were characterized with a high knowledge level (76.9%) and positive attitudes (53.8%) on HW management. Incineration (82.6%) was recognized as the most widely used HW treatment method. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) was used at a satisfactory level (85.5%), while liquid waste treatment was limited (57.5%). The occupational designation, level of training received in HW management, professional experience, vaccination status for tetanus, degree of knowledge and attitudes on HW management were recognized as significant risk factors (p < 0.05) associated with the occurrence of HW related occupational hazards.

Conclusion

Even though, the treatment of HW was satisfactory, strengthening the existing mechanisms for monitoring of HW management, provisioning more resources and organizing training and awareness programmes on HW management for HCP are recommended.

Pregnant people's views and knowledge on prenatal screening for fetal trisomy in the absence of a national screening program

Multiple non-invasive prenatal tests (NIPT) are available to screen for risk of fetal trisomy, however, there is no national prenatal screening program in Republic of Ireland. This study aimed to analyze pregnant people's opinions on availability, cost, and knowledge of NIPT for fetal aneuploidy. An anonymous questionnaire on prenatal screening tests and termination of pregnancy was distributed to patients attending antenatal clinics at a tertiary hospital. Descriptive analyses and chi-squared tests were completed. Among respondents, 62% (200/321) understood the scope of prenatal screening tests, with 77% (251/326) and 76% (245/323) correctly interpreting low- and high-risk test results, respectively. Only 26% (83/319) of participants had heard of NIPT. Chi-square tests showed a higher proportion of these people were ≥40 years old (p-value, <0.001), had post-graduate education (p-value, <0.001), or attended private clinics (p-value <0.001). Over 91% (303/331) of participants said every pregnant person should be offered prenatal screening tests for aneuploidy and 88% (263/299) believed these should be free. While pregnant Irish individuals have reasonable understanding of screening test interpretation, most were unaware of screening options. Additionally, participants' views on availability and associated cost of tests show the need for a national prenatal screening program, including education on fetal aneuploidy. These findings have relevance for countries without screening policies and are pertinent for broader maternity services.

Knowledge and Attitude of the General Population in Saudi Arabia Toward Weight Management Medications (WMMs): A Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND

 Over the past decades, the global prevalence of obesity has tripled, with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia experiencing a notably higher rate of increase. While lifestyle modifications remain the first line of treatment, pharmacological interventions are often employed when dietary and exercise interventions prove insufficient. However, safety concerns, misuse, and limited knowledge about weight management medications (WMMs) pose serious challenges.

OBJECTIVES

 The objectives of this study were to determine the level of knowledge and examine attitudes towards WMMs among the general population, and to explore the factors associated with these knowledge levels and attitude patterns.

METHODS

 A cross-sectional study was conducted among adults from the general population in Saudi Arabia from January 2023 to May 2023. Participants completed a validated, self-administered electronic questionnaire in Arabic language. The questionnaire captured sociodemographic, lifestyle and health data, knowledge about WMMs, and attitudes toward them. The outcome measures included knowledge and attitudes scores. Factors associated with knowledge and attitudes were analyzed using chi-square tests. Statistical significance was determined at a p-value of <0.05.

RESULTS

 Around 716 respondents were included in the final analysis. Most of the participants acknowledged diet 565 (78.9%) and exercise 621 (86.7%) as effective strategies to lose weight. Only 222 (31.0%) participants recognized pharmaceutical medications as a weight management strategy. Knowledge about specific weight loss medications varied, with the highest recognition for semaglutide (Ozempic®, Novo Nordisk, Bagsværd, Denmark) 236 (33.0%) and liraglutide (Saxenda®, Novo Nordisk, Bagsværd, Denmark) 228 (31.8%), while the other WMMs were not commonly known between participants. Regarding attitudes, the majority disagreed with statements that WMMs are more effective than diet/exercise 413 (57.7%), are safe 405 (56.6%), and are more convenient to use 408 (57.0%). Notably, about three-quarters [534 (74.6%)] of participants agreed that these medications require specialist's counseling. No correlation was observed between knowledge score and attitude score (Pearson's correlation coefficient r=0.03; p=0.330). Respondents' knowledge about WMMs was significantly influenced by age, monthly income, educational level, psychiatric history, and previous use of WMMs (p<0.05). Adequate knowledge was more prevalent among participants aged 26-35, earning more than 20K SAR monthly, postgraduates, those with a psychiatric history, and past users of WMMs. Attitudes toward WMMs, however, showed no significant association with sociodemographic or health-related factors (p>0.05). However, prior use of WMMs significantly correlated with attitudes (p=0.007), with past users demonstrating more favorable attitudes.

CONCLUSION

 This study reveals a limited knowledge and cautious attitude regarding WMMs in the Saudi population, despite the high prevalence of obesity. With prior use of WMMs correlating with better knowledge and more favorable attitudes, these findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions to enhance public awareness and safe usage of these medications.

Knowledge of COVID-19 and associated factors among kidney transplant recipients and donors in Singapore

Background

Effective interventions during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic require an understanding of patients' knowledge and perceptions that influence their behaviour. Our study assessed knowledge of COVID-19 among kidney transplant recipients and donors, hitherto unevaluated.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional survey among 325 kidney transplant recipients and 172 donors between 1 May 2020 and 30 June 2020. The survey questionnaire assessed knowledge levels of COVID-19, sociodemographic data, health status, psychosocial impact of COVID-19 and precautionary behaviours during the pandemic.

Results

The mean COVID-19 knowledge score of the study population was 7.5 (standard deviation: 2.2) out of 10. The mean score was significantly higher among kidney recipients compared to kidney donors (7.9 [1.9] vs. 6.7 [2.6]; P <0.001). Younger age (21-49 vs. ≥50 years) and higher education (diploma and higher vs. secondary and lower) were associated with significantly higher knowledge scores in donors, but not among recipients (P-interactions ≤0.01). In both kidney recipients and donors, financial concerns and/or social isolation were associated with lower knowledge levels.

Conclusions

Concerted efforts are needed to improve COVID-19 knowledge in kidney transplant recipients and donors, particularly older donors, donors with lower education and patients with financial concerns or feelings of social isolation. Intensive patient education may mitigate the impact of education levels on COVID-19 knowledge levels.

Knowledge and attitudes of cervical cancer screening among female high school teachers in Hail city: A cross-sectional study

Background

Cervical cancer is a primary preventable cancer. The current study aims to assess relevant knowledge and attitude of cervical cancer screening among female high school teachers in Hail city, Saudi Arabia.

Materials and Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted among female high school teachers in the Hail Province of Saudi Arabia. It is worth mentioning that Pap smear screening every 3-5 years with appropriate follow-up can reduce cervical cancer incidence by up to 80%, and abnormal results may suggest the presence of precancerous changes, allowing examination and possible preventive treatment.

Results

Data from 387 participants were included in the final analysis. The study participants were female high school teachers. Mean age of the participants was 41.4 ± 5.3 years. Only 42% participants appeared to have good level of knowledge about cervical cancer. Fifty-eight percentage of females had not heard of it before. Only 22 (5.7%) participants had undergone Pap smear testing. A total of 182 (47.0%) participants believed that Pap smear test is a useful test and would undergo the test. Around 139 females (35.9%) will be allowing their daughters to get the human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccine.

Conclusions

Interventions to increase cervical cancer knowledge are needed in Hail city in Saudi Arabia. In addition, further research is needed to understand and assess the effectiveness of different strategies to improve attitudes regarding cervical cancer, in order to increase the uptake of screening services.

[Knowledge and perceptions of the population on services in case of need for long-term care: A standardized telephone survey]

Knowledge and perceptions of the population on services in case of need for long-term care: A standardized telephone survey Abstract. Background: In the absence of professional support, family caregivers rarely recognize their own overload situations and therefore make inadequate use of support services in the event of a need for care. Aim: The study investigates the care of people in need for care, the level of knowledge about and stress factors in the assumption of care from the point of view of informal caregivers and non-caregivers. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using standardized Computer Assisted Telephone Interviews (CATI) with persons aged 18 and older in Saxony. Descriptive and bivariate statistics were calculated. Results: Care provided by an outpatient care service or by family caregivers was rated significantly better by 259 informal caregivers compared with 342 non-caregivers among 601 participants (N = 601). Further, informal caregivers and non-caregivers had different knowledge about the closest place for long-term care counseling and about compensation payments from the pension insurance. Conclusions: In individual areas of the queried counseling services and relief options, the response behavior of family caregivers differed significantly from the other participants. It can be assumed that family caregivers have a slight information advantage of family caregivers in the use of support services.

Multistakeholder knowledge levels and perspectives of human papillomavirus and its vaccination: An exploratory qualitative study

OBJECTIVE

This qualitative study was an integral part in the development of a multidisciplinary team-led school-based human papillomavirus vaccination health-promotion programme (MDL-SHPVP) aiming to increase HPV vaccine uptake in Hong Kong. Study findings will inform the design of the MDL-SHPVP by drawing on interview data regarding the expectations and needs of key stakeholders and potential programme users.

METHODS

Eight mother-daughter dyads, four secondary school teachers, two school principals, three social workers and one school nurse were interviewed. All interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim for thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Most participants had misconceptions about HPV and the vaccine. Alhough there was no immediate perceived need for the vaccination, most participants had favourable attitudes towards HPV inoculation and vaccines in general. Factors affecting vaccine uptake included perceptions about risk of infection, vaccine availability, and cost. Participants were largely open to suggested MDL-SHPVP components (videos, digital game, and group discussions).

CONCLUSION

Findings have highlighted knowledge gaps among potential users and key stakeholders and will be used to inform the design of the MDL-SHPVP to ensure that their needs and expectations are addressed. Study findings may also aid future HPV vaccine promotion efforts and boost HPV vaccine uptake among youth in the city.

[Status of Human Papillomavirus Vaccination and Knowledge,Attitudes, and Influencing Factors towards Human Papillomavirus and Its Vaccines among University Students in Western China]

Objective To investigate the knowledge about human papillomavirus(HPV)and its vaccines,HPV vaccination status,and vaccination willingness among the freshmen majoring in liberal arts,sciences,and medicine in western China,so as to provide evidence-based suggestions for health education among university students and to increase their vaccination. Methods By convenience sampling,stratified sampling,and cluster sampling,an online questionnaire survey was conducted among freshmen in a comprehensive university in Chengdu.The differences among the groups were compared by χ² test,and non-conditional logistic regression was performed to analyze the influencing factors of willingness to vaccination. Results A total of 881 participants were included in this study,including 419 males and 462 females.The vaccination rate of females was 3.5%(16/462).Of all the university students,59.1%,67.5%,and 56.3% had heard of HPV,HPV-related diseases,and HPV vaccines,respectively,and only 10.4%,10.6%,and 27.8% knew "HPV infection usually does not cause symptoms","HPV infection is usually transient and mostly spontaneous regressive",and "HPV infection is very common".Females and medical students had more related knowledge than males and non-medical students(P=0.035,P=0.021).Of all the university students,65.7% were willing to be vaccinated against HPV.The high cost of vaccination(50.8%),worry about the side effects adverse reaction(46.3%),and lack of sexual life(43.4%)were the main reasons for the reluctance to be vaccinated.Gender,education background of parents,history of self-financed vaccination,attitude towards premarital sexual behavior,history of sexual behavior,and knowledge of HPV were the influencing factors of vaccination willingness. Conclusions The freshmen had a low rate of HPV vaccination and limited detailed knowledge about HPV and its vaccines.Health education campaign is urgently called for among university students regarding HPV infection as well as the safety,effectiveness,and side effects of HPV vaccines.More attention should be paid to the health education of male and non-medical students.

Knowledge, attitudes and practices of pharmacists about pharmacovigilance, Libya

Background

The concept of pharmacovigilance is not well known in Libya and its practice is still in the early stages.

Aims

This study aimed to determine the knowledge, attitudes and practices of pharmacists in Tripoli, Libya about pharmacovigilance and the reporting of adverse drug reactions.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted from October 2019 to February 2020 of working pharmacists randomly selected from pharmacies in Tripoli. Participants were eligible for inclusion if they had a degree or diploma in pharmacy from a recognized university or institute. Data were collected using a validated self-administered questionnaire.

Results

Of 500 pharmacists selected, 408 completed the questionnaire. The pharmacists' knowledge of pharmacovigilance and reporting of adverse drug reactions was poor overall: only 28.9% correctly defined pharmacovigilance and 14.7% knew about the existence of a centre for pharmacovigilance in Libya. The attitudes of the pharmacists to pharmacovigilance was positive: 77.2% believed that pharmacovigilance needed to be included in the pharmacy curriculum and 73.0% said that they would practice pharmacovigilance if trained. Pharmacists depended mostly on drug information leaflets to update their knowledge on adverse drug reactions.

Conclusion

Given the pharmacists' low level of knowledge about pharmacovigilance but their readiness to become involved if trained, training programmes should be introduced for practising pharmacists to improve their knowledge and encourage their active participation in pharmacovigilance. Regulators need to reinforce the importance of reporting adverse drug reactions and implement pharmacovigilance policies in the Libyan health care system.

Misinformation Drives Low Human Papillomavirus Vaccination Coverage in South African Girls Attending Private Schools

Background: Cervical cancer, caused by persistent human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, is the leading cause of female cancer deaths in South Africa. In 2014, the South African National Department of Health introduced a free public sector school-based HPV vaccination programme, targeting grade 4 girls aged ≥9 years. However, private sector school girls receive HPV vaccination through their healthcare providers at cost. This study investigated HPV vaccination knowledge, attitudes and practices of caregivers of girls aged ≥9 years in grades 4-7 attending South African private schools. Methods: A link to an online survey was circulated to caregivers via an email sent to school principals of all private schools in four provinces enrolling girls in grades 4-7. Following a poor post-reminder response, a paid Facebook survey-linked advert targeting South African Facebook users aged ≥25 years nationally was run for 4 days, and placed on the South African Vaccination and Immunisation Centre's Facebook page for 20 days. Results: Of 615 respondents, 413 provided HPV vaccination data and 455 completed the knowledge and attitudes tests. Most (76.5%) caregivers had good knowledge and 45.3% had positive attitudes. Of their daughters, 19.4% had received ≥1 dose of HPV vaccine. Of caregivers of unvaccinated girls, 44.3% and 41.1%, respectively were willing to vaccinate their daughters if vaccination was offered free and at their school. Caregivers of unvaccinated girls were more likely [odds ratio (OR): 3.8] to have been influenced by "other" influences (mainly online articles and anecdotal vaccine injury reports). Of caregivers influenced by their healthcare providers, caregivers of unvaccinated girls were more likely (OR: 0.2) to be influenced by alternative medical practitioners. Caregivers of vaccinated girls were more likely to have good knowledge (OR: 3.6) and positive attitudes (OR: 5.2). Having good knowledge strongly predicted (OR: 2.8) positive attitudes. Having negative attitudes strongly predicted (OR: 0.2) girls being unvaccinated. Conclusion: Providing free school-based HPV vaccination in the private sector may not increase HPV vaccination coverage to an optimal level. Since misinformation was the main driver of negative attitudes resulting in <20% of girls being vaccinated, an advocacy campaign targeting all stakeholders is urgently needed.

Knowledge and Attitudes on Vaccination in Southern Romanians: A Cross-Sectional Questionnaire

Vaccines are fundamental instruments upon which all modern medicine is hinged. This has recently come into the light because of the COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2. We aimed to assess the knowledge and attitudes of the public regarding vaccination. To this end, a questionnaire, which was disseminated to the general population between 2017 and 2019, was used. We evaluated the responses from 1647 individuals (61% female, with a median age of 37 years, mostly from urban settings). Most respondents (85%) had children and were in favor of vaccination. Our study underlines the role that family physicians have in the education and information of citizens. A small, but considerable, number of respondents (108, 7.84% of those with children) had not vaccinated their children according to the national vaccination scheme. Deterrents were considered to be lack of information and fear of side effects. However, 167 of our respondents (12.12% out of 1377 respondents with children) said that their child experienced adverse events—most of which were mild local reactions. Alternatives to vaccination were proposed by some. In this study, we highlight the attitudes of respondents and multiple gaps in general knowledge, both of which may need to be addressed, especially in light of the current pandemic situation and past failed campaigns.

The effect of education on nursing personnel's knowledge and attitudes regarding the use of integrative care techniques with hospice and palliative care patients

PURPOSE

To examine the effect of education on nursing personnel's knowledge and attitudes regarding the use of hand massage, breathing techniques, and essential oils with hospice and palliative care patients.

BACKGROUND

Unrelieved, end of life pain is common among hospitalized patients on hospice and palliative care units. Integrative care techniques such as hand massage, breathing techniques, and essential oils can be available to use with these individuals. Nursing personnel are often unaware of other techniques that are not a traditional pharmacology approach to pain.

METHODS

A quasi-experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of an educational intervention on nursing personnel's knowledge and attitudes regarding the use of three integrative care techniques (hand massage, breathing techniques, and essential oils) with hospice and palliative care patients in an acute care setting. Data on knowledge and attitudes were collected pre- and postintervention.

RESULTS

Following the intervention, improvements in nursing personnel's attitudes and knowledge toward the use of the three techniques were found.

CONCLUSION

Results of this study suggest that education of nursing personnel may positively influence knowledge and attitudes toward providing hand massage, breathing techniques, and essential oil for end of life patients.

Medical Marijuana Knowledge and Attitudes: A Survey of the California Pharmacists Association

Views on the medical efficacy and acceptability of marijuana have changed over the years. California was the first state permitting individuals to use medical marijuana. Even with a long history of use and widespread agreement around the effectiveness of medical marijuana, the literature is sparse about the role health care providers, including pharmacists, play in this interaction. The purpose of this article is to shed light on knowledge and attitudes of pharmacists regarding medical marijuana. We developed a survey for pharmacists about their level of knowledge and attitudes toward medical marijuana. The survey was distributed using SurveyMonkey. It consisted of 44 questions and an opportunity to provide comments. We collaborated with the California Pharmacists Association who provided a link to the survey in October 2017 to their members. Results from 474 responses indicate a majority of providers believe that marijuana has medical efficacy. Yet most providers report that they neither have much information about medical marijuana nor do they know where to get such information. One area of particular concern is the potential for drug interactions. Pharmacists would feel more comfortable discussing medical marijuana if it was approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Moreover, they believe more research needs to occur. The variance between California and federal policy leads to dysfunction among pharmacists providing information to patients. We believe federal policy should change.

2019-novel coronavirus survey: knowledge and attitudes of hospital staff of a large Italian teaching hospital

One week after the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) outbreak a global health emergency we conducted a survey to explore knowledge and attitudes on 2019-nCoV, recently renamed severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), in a large cohort of hospital staff. A representative sample of 2,046 hospital staff of a large university hospital in northern Italy (54% healthcare workers and 46% administrative staff, overall response rate: 25%) was administered an online questionnaire: overall there is good knowledge on 2019-nCoV control measures. The mean of correct answers for questions on general aspects of 2019-nCoV epidemic was 71.6% for HCWs and 61.2% for non-HCWs. The mean of correct answers for questions on 2019-nCoV patient management was 57.8% among HCWs. Nevertheless, on recommended precautions, also among healthcare workers there is still much to do in order to promote effective control measures and correct preventive behaviours at the individual level.

Medical personnel knowledge and stigmatic attitude toward HIV patients in a high-income country

Negative attitudes of health care workers (HCW) toward people living with HIV (PLWH) impact patients' care, quality-of-life, therapy adherence, and retention in care. Few publications address stigma and discrimination among HCWs in high income countries. This study aims to provide a better understanding of HCW knowledge and attitudes toward caring for PLWH, how this relates to discriminatory tendencies and professional contacts, and proposes effective strategies to reduce negative attitudes and stigmas among health care providers in a tertiary hospital in Israel. Of 321 health care personnel who responded to an electronic questionnaire, HCWs had a good level of general knowledge regarding HIV. A lack of knowledge was noted regarding antiretroviral therapy influences, HIV transmission from mother to child, and HIV risks and transmission. Cultural diversity was also noted. This study supports the need to implement a training program for HCWs on HIV-related stigma-reduction.

Teachers' Knowledge About Epilepsy and Their Attitudes Toward Students with Epilepsy: A Cross-Sectional Survey in the City of Tahoua (Niger)

PURPOSE

In this survey, first, we aimed to investigate the views held about epilepsy of primary and secondary school teachers in the city of Tahoua (Niger, a Sub-Saharan African country), and secondarily, how their experience and knowledge about epilepsy influence their attitudes towards school children with epilepsy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A cross-sectional survey was carried out between November and December 2019. We used a self-administered questionnaire survey in French-language comprising sociodemographic part, and knowledge and attitudes about epilepsy part. Composite scores of knowledge and attitudes were calculated, and statistical analyses were performed to assess their association with sociodemographic characteristics.

RESULTS

Two hundred eighty-four (284) school teachers had agreed to answer the questionnaire survey, among which 25% had already witnessed an epileptic seizure in the classroom or the schoolyard. Epilepsy is considered as a chronic brain disease and psychiatric illness in 31% and 32.4% of cases, respectively. In 41.9% of cases, epilepsy is considered as a contagious disease. Significantly, we found that the composite score of knowledge and attitudes was lower in younger school teachers (p = 0.007) and those with fewer years of teaching experience (p = 0.048). High school teachers had better score composite than those of primary school and college (p = 0.072). Regarding the composite score of attitudes, we did not find an association with sociodemographic characteristics.

CONCLUSION

Teachers' attitudes were not associated with their level of school taught, years of teaching experience, and their religion. It is necessary to integrate educational training courses about epilepsy into the curriculum of teachers' training.

Characterising HIV/AIDS knowledge and attitudes in the Middle East and North Africa: Systematic review and data synthesis

This article reviews HIV/AIDS knowledge and attitudes in various population groups in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), and highlights their relevance to HIV epidemiology and the design and implementation of preventions and treatment efforts. PubMed and the MENA HIV/AIDS Epidemiology Synthesis Project database of grey/unpublished literature were searched. Levels of knowledge were categorised based on presence of basic knowledge, comprehensive knowledge, and misconceptions and misinformation. Attitudes towards people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHIV) were classified into positive or negative. Basic knowledge was overall high among key populations at higher risk of infection (KPAR), and bridging and general population groups, but still a few population pockets had low basic knowledge. Level of comprehensive knowledge was overall low, and misinformation and misconceptions were prevalent. Some KPAR, including people who inject drugs, men who have sex with men, and female sex workers, were unaware of some modes of HIV transmission. Perception of risk of infection was low even among KPAR. We found differentials in knowledge putting women, rural populations, refugees, and other marginalised minorities at a disadvantage. Attitudes towards PLHIV tended to be negative. These findings are of concern, particularly for KPAR currently experiencing emerging HIV epidemics.

Environmental Effects of the Livestock Industry: The Relationship between Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behavior among Students in Israel

The livestock industry has numerous and diverse impacts on the environment. In a cross-sectional study using an online questionnaire, 361 students were asked about their knowledge, attitudes, and behavior related to the environmental impact caused by livestock industry. The data were analyzed using correlations, t-tests for independent samples, and linear regression models. We found that students have almost no knowledge about the environmental impact of the food they consume, their attitudes are moderately pro-environmental, yet they are not strict about pro-environmental behavior. Students with higher levels of environmental knowledge demonstrated more pro-environmental attitudes and behavior; attitudes mediate the relationship between level of knowledge and behavior with respect to environmental pollution caused by the livestock industry. In addition, participants that rear/reared animals demonstrated more knowledge and pro-environmental attitudes and behavior, and women demonstrated more pro-environmental attitudes and behavior than men. There is a need to raise awareness of the environmental and health impacts caused by livestock industry. An introductory course on environmental science should be integrated into different academic study programs. Further research should be conducted among additional population sectors.

Knowledge and attitudes regarding hospice care among outpatients and family members in two hospitals in China

Access to hospice care is widely provided in Western countries, but the supply of such service is still in its initiative stage in China. As relatives are often involved in end-of-life decision making in China, a better understanding of their cognitions toward hospice care would help policy makers and physicians to overcome the barriers of providing such service. Thus, we conducted the study to assess the level of knowledge and attitudes among Chinese outpatients and family members regarding hospice care.A cross-sectional study was conducted in Peking University Third Hospital and Peking University Shougang Hospital. Trained interviewers recruited outpatients or family members in two hospitals as a convenience sample to complete an anonymous face-to-face survey on demographic information, knowledge, and attitudes regarding hospice care.A total of 550 respondents completed this survey. Only 107 (19.5%) reported that they had known or heard of hospice care, with a mean knowledge score of 2.8 (standard deviation = 1.6). Of the respondents, 69.5% answered "strongly agree" or "agree" regarding the importance of providing hospice care in China. Participants who had known of hospice care were more likely to have favorite attitudes toward it.The awareness rate of hospice care is low in the study, which may lead to poor attitude and low enrollment rate. Considering the increasing evidence to support the improved outcomes of patients and family members associated with hospice care, the public education on its scope of services, benefits, and limitations is needed in China.

Complementary Medicine and the Role of Oncology Nurses in an Acute Care Hospital: The Gap Between Attitudes and Practice

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES

To describe hospital nurses' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding complementary medicine (CM); to compare the knowledge and attitudes of nurse managers to staff nurses with diverse oncology experience; and to assess attitudes toward integrating CM into the role of the hospital oncology nurse. 
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DESIGN

Descriptive, cross-sectional study.
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SETTING

Rambam Health Care Campus in northern Israel.
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SAMPLE

A convenience sample of 434 hospital nurses with varied oncology experience.
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METHODS

Nurses completed a knowledge and attitude questionnaire developed for the current study. Data were analyzed using parametric and nonparametric statistical tests. 
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MAIN RESEARCH VARIABLES

Hospital nurses' knowledge of and attitudes toward CM, and attitudes toward integrating CM into the role of the hospital oncology nurse.
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FINDINGS

Nurses lack knowledge and are unaware of the risks associated with CM. However, they believe this approach can improve the quality of life of patients with cancer; 51% expressed an interest in receiving training. Oncology nurses were ambivalent about the feasibility of applying an integrative approach, whereas nurse managers expressed significantly more positive attitudes toward integrating CM within the scope of nursing practices.
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CONCLUSIONS

A large discrepancy remains between nurses' strong interest in CM and awareness of associated benefits, and their ambivalence toward its integration in their nursing practice. 
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IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING

Although improving nurses' knowledge should be mandatory, it remains insufficient; a shift in the approach to integrating CM into conventional health care is needed, from practitioners' responsibility to healthcare policymakers' responsibility. Legislations and policies are necessary, along with providing respectable infrastructures.

Awareness of cervical cancer among women in Malaysia

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study is to evaluate and ascertain the current knowledge, perception, level of awareness, and attitudes toward cervical cancer (CC) among women in Malaysia.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted which involved 210 women aged between 21 and 60 years old at the public in Malaysia, a subsequent statistical analysis was performed by SPSS version 22.

RESULTS

In comparison with other studies, there is still lacking of awareness on CC and these induced informal cluelessness and poor attitudes toward it. In terms of risk factors, there are two factors with some degree of awareness among women in Malaysia, i.e., multiple sexual partners and sexually transmitted diseases. Women in Malaysia have less awareness on the causes and clinical manifestations of the disease (P < 0.05). They are aware that regular papanicolaou (Pap) smear would screen CC and surgery could be a treatment of choice. In addition, women in Malaysia also have moderate awareness about Pap smear as prevention to detect and prevent CC at the early stage.

CONCLUSIONS

Women in Malaysia only has a good awareness about multiple sex partner and sexually transmitted disease as a risk factor for CC, they also have good knowledge on regular Pap smear as a tool to diagnose and surgery as a treatment. Future, further effort is required to promote awareness of women's perception and attitudes toward CC.

The HPV vaccine: knowledge and attitudes among public health nurses and general practitioners in Northern Norway after introduction of the vaccine in the school-based vaccination programme

OBJECTIVE

To investigate knowledge of and attitudes to human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, HPV vaccination, cervical cancer, related sources of information and factors associated with willingness to vaccinate one's own daughter among primary health care (PHC) personnel.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

SETTING

PHC.

SUBJECTS

All public health nurses (PHNs) and general practitioners (GPs) in Northern Norway were invited to answer a structured electronic questionnaire; 31% participated (N = 220).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Self-reported and actual knowledge, information sources, attitudes and willingness to vaccinate their (tentative) daughter.

RESULTS

47% of respondents knew that HPV infection is a necessary cause of cervical cancer. PHNs had higher self-reported and actual knowledge about HPV vaccination and cervical cancer than GPs. PHNs used the Norwegian Institute of Public Health's numerous information sources on HPV, while GPs had a low user rate. 88% of PHNs and 50% of GPs acquired information from the pharmaceutical industry. 93% PHNs and 68% of GPs would vaccinate their 12-year-old daughter. In a multivariate logistic regression analysis, willingness to vaccinate one's daughter was positively associated with younger age, being PHN (OR = 5.26, 95%CI 1.74-15.94), little concern about vaccine side effects (OR = 3.61, 95%CI 1.10-11.81) and disagreement among experts (OR = 7.31, 95%CI 2.73-19.60).

CONCLUSIONS

Increased knowledge about HPV infection and vaccination is needed, particularly among GPs. Those least concerned about side effects and disagreements among experts were most likely to vaccinate their daughter. These findings are of interest for public health authorities responsible for the Norwegian vaccination and cervix cancer screening programmes, and providers of training of PHC personnel. Key points One year after introduction of HPV vaccination among 12-year-old schoolgirls in Norway, a cross-sectional study in Northern Norway among general practitioners (GPs) and public health nurses (PHNs) showed that • barely half of PHC professionals knew the causal relationship between HPV infection and cervical cancer • PHNs and GPs had higher self-reported than actual knowledge about HPV vaccination and cervical cancer nearly all PHNs and two thirds of GPs wanted to vaccinate their 12-year-old daughter. Those most concerned about side effects and disagreement among experts were less likely to vaccinate.

Cancer-related pain management: A review of knowledge and attitudes of healthcare professionals

Cancer-related pain (CRP) is common and many patients continue to experience pain in spite of advances in pain management modalities. The lack of knowledge, inadequate assessment of CRP and/or organisational factors, such as lack of time due to heavy workload, can be a barrier to effective pain management of healthcare professionals. The purpose was to examine the evidence with regard to the knowledge and attitudes towards practice of healthcare professionals in relation to CRP management. A search of the literature (1999-2015) was conducted searching databases and journals including CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, PubMed, Science Direct and Wiley-Blackwell. The initial search revealed a total of 99 articles and following removal of those that did not meet the inclusion criteria, 19 articles were included in the final review. Recognition of the widespread under treatment of CRP has prompted recent corrective efforts in terms of education from healthcare professionals, however, there is a continuing deficit in healthcare professionals' knowledge with regard to CRP management and indicated that healthcare professionals still have negative attitudes that hinder the delivery of quality care to patients suffering from CRP. Further research on how and where education on this topic should be delivered is required.

Cervical Cancer Screening Knowledge and Behavior among Women Attending an Urban HIV Clinic in Western Kenya

Cervical cancer is a highly preventable disease that disproportionately affects women in developing countries and women with HIV. As integrated HIV and cervical cancer screening programs in Sub-Saharan Africa mature, we have an opportunity to measure the impact of outreach and education efforts and identify areas for future improvement. We conducted a cross-sectional survey of 106 women enrolled in care at an integrated HIV clinic in the Nyanza Province of Kenya 5 years after the start of a cervical cancer screening program. Female clinic attendees who met clinic criteria for cervical cancer screening were asked to complete an oral questionnaire assessing their cervical cancer knowledge, attitudes, and screening history. Ninety-nine percent of women had heard of screening, 70 % felt at risk, and 84 % had been screened. Increased duration of HIV diagnosis was associated with feeling at risk and with a screening history. Nearly half (48 %) of women said they would not get screened if they had to pay for it.

Knowledge and attitudes survey in bleeding disorders providers regarding pain

INTRODUCTION

The National Pain Study identified respondents (39%) were not satisfied with their pain management yet over 50% seek out their Haemophilia Treatment Centre (HTC) providers for pain management. This study's purpose was to assess the knowledge and attitudes of HTC providers regarding pain assessment and treatment.

METHODS

One hundred and fifty-two HTC providers responded to a Survey Monkey™ Questionnaire.

RESULTS

Knowledge deficits noted in pharmacology included (i) potentiators of opioids, (ii) time to peak effect of oral morphine, (iii) benzodiazepines usage as effective pain relievers and (iv) dose escalation/respiratory depression in an opioid tolerant patient. Areas of deficit in the substance abuse category involved (i) likelihood of a previous alcohol/drug abuse problem and (ii) signs and symptoms of discontinuation syndrome. Despite 100% confirmation from all providers that the patient is the best source of pain reporting, when presented with two identical case scenarios except for the patient's visual pain presentation; pain ratings were reported differently for patients who rated their pain similarly (8/10), yet displayed their pain symptoms differently resulting in different pain medication regimens. Responses were consistent between the provider groups but varied between case studies suggesting disparity between personal attitudes of providers when prescribing pain medication in the haemophilia population.

CONCLUSIONS

Continued research in the area of haemophilia pain as well as treatment is needed. In addition, continuing pain education is recommended for HTC provider's at the local, regional and national levels so providers could remain up to date in the changes and progress of pain management theory.

Racial variation in tubal sterilization rates: role of patient-level factors

OBJECTIVE

To assess racial differences in attitudes and knowledge about sterilization.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional survey.

SETTING

Questionnaires were mailed to participants' home addresses.

PATIENT(S)

One hundred ninety-three women, aged 18-45, who had undergone tubal sterilization.

INTERVENTION(S)

None.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

Attitudes and knowledge about tubal sterilization and awareness of contraceptive alternatives.

RESULT(S)

We received 193 completed surveys (64% response rate). African American (AA) woman were more likely to have a family member who had undergone tubal sterilization, to report that their mothers influenced their sterilization decisions, and to report that prior unintended pregnancy and desire to avoid insertion of a foreign object were very important factors in their decision to choose sterilization over other methods. Compared with white women, AA women more often thought that sterilization reversal could easily restore fertility (62% vs. 36%); that a woman's sterilization would reverse itself after 5 years (60% vs. 23%); and that a man cannot ejaculate after vasectomy (38% vs. 13%). Fewer AA women had ever heard of intrauterine contraception (90% vs. 98%). Racial differences in knowledge remained statistically significant after adjusting for socioeconomic confounders.

CONCLUSION(S)

Misinformation about sterilization and limited awareness of contraceptive alternatives among AA women may contribute to racial disparities in tubal sterilization rates.