After The COVID-19 Pandemic, Nurses' Attitudes Toward The Use Of Herbs For Seasonal Influenza in Türkiye

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to examine the attitude of nurses toward the use of herbal therapies for seasonal influenza after the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: This descriptive study was completed with 153 nurses working in shifts at the university hospital. This study was conducted between April 1, 2023, and May 1, 2023. The data were collected in the form of an online questionnaire with the "Introductory Information Form" prepared by the researchers in line with the literature, and the "Attitudes Towards Using Complementary Therapies Scale". Results: The mean age of the participants was 31.84±6.32 years. Among the nurses who participated in the study, 58.2% stated that they had COVID-19 disease in the previous years (2019–2022), and 41.8% had seasonal flu this year (2023). The majority of nurses (91.5%) reported knowing herbal methods, and 39.2% reported using social media as a source of herbal method information. Demographic factors did not significantly affect COVID-19 and seasonal influenza status, herbal treatment knowledge or use. However, gender, education and marital status played a role in participation in herbal treatment. Conclusion: In this study, it was found that nurses who experienced seasonal influenza after the COVID-19 pandemic had positive attitudes toward the use of herbal treatment during influenza. The most frequently used methods for herbal treatment include herbal teas, the use of herbal oils, and mixtures. In the study, it was found that nurses used rosemary tea, chamomile oil, and black cumin honey mixtures the most, respectively.