Breast cancer awareness in student nurses: Implications for health promotion

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Heffernan, Claire (2011) Breast cancer awareness in student nurses: Implications for health promotion. [Dissertation (University of Nottingham only)] (Unpublished)

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Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore student nurses‟ knowledge of breast cancer, and their ability and confidence to promote breast cancer awareness. The literature review highlighted that there has been a minimal amount of research published into this area, identifying the need for more contemporary research.

Using a quantitative approach, questionnaires were distributed to all adult branch students who were currently studying on the Master of Nursing Science course in 2010. The questionnaire sought to assess the overall knowledge and confidence levels student nurses have, and identify if there is a significant development of breast cancer knowledge, and confidence levels in promoting breast awareness throughout the four year course.

The results of the study showed that fourth year nursing students were relatively more confident in their knowledge of breast cancer, and showed to have more knowledge of breast cancer statistics, than any other year. However despite fourth years having a higher level of breast cancer knowledge, overall their knowledge levels still remain very poor, identifying the need for more pre-registration teaching into this area. In order to see if there were any statistically significant relationships hidden within the raw data, unpaired t-tests were carried out, which ultimately showed no statistically significant relationships between the variables.

Despite the study containing a number of limitations, it did bring to light new ideas that can now be added to the limited body of research surrounding this area. It has revealed that generally student nurses have very little knowledge on breast cancer as a whole, and have little confidence in the accuracy of their knowledge and therefore their ability to promote breast cancer awareness.

Item Type: Dissertation (University of Nottingham only)
Depositing User: EP, Services
Date Deposited: 05 Aug 2011 13:25
Last Modified: 24 Jan 2018 14:57
URI: https://eprints.nottingham.ac.uk/id/eprint/24796

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