Assessment of student nutrition knowledge and self‐efficacy at Boston University School of Medicine (118.1)

Abstract

Objective: To determine baseline nutrition knowledge and perceived self‐efficacy in BUSM students and identify associated demographic factors.Methods: We conducted a cross‐sectional survey of 1st to 4th year medical students (n=775) including 6 knowledge and 4 self‐efficacy nutrition questions. Students were encouraged to take the survey via email and Blackboard postings from February‐April 2013. Data included year in medical school, gender, and involvement in a student nutrition interest group (SNAAC). Outcomes included an average composite knowledge score (mean±sd) and self‐efficacy ratings related to confidence to provide dietary counseling, refer to Registered Dietitians (RDs), and refer to food programs (Likert scale ranging from “strongly disagree” to “strongly agree”). Descriptive and multivariate analyses were performed.Results: 166 (23%) students responded. Average knowledge score was 52±19%. Confidence to provide dietary counseling, refer to Registered Dietitians (RDs), and refer to food programs was 55%, 37% and 24%, respectively. After adjusting for all covariates, knowledge score increased with each education year (3.1 ±1.4%, p<0.05) and was lower in males (‐9.3±3.2%, p<0.05). Students were more likely to feel confident to counsel with each education year (AOR=1.41, 95% CI 1.03‐1.96) and with SNAAC involvement (AOR=2.74, 95% 1.39‐5.40). Confidence to refer to RDs was more likely with involvement in SNAAC (AOR=2.47, 95% CI 1.26‐4.83).Conclusions: Medical student knowledge and self‐efficacy in nutrition is low. More nutrition education and prospective evaluations are needed. Funded by the New Balance Foundation.