Determination of Nursing Students' Levels of Knowledge in Sexual Health/Reproductive Health during Emergency Status and Influencing Factors

Abstract

Aim: The aim is to determine nursing students' sexual/reproductive health knowledge levels and affecting factors in extraordinary situations. Method: This cross-sectional study was carried out with 356 nursing students between November-December 2023 at ……. University of Health Sciences, Department of Nursing. Data were collected through a survey including the Introductory Information Form and the Sexual and Reproductive Health Knowledge Scale in Emergencies (SRHKSE). Results: The mean age of nursing students was 20.53±2.57. The average score on the SRHKSE was 84.90±7.91. The sub-dimensions of the SRHKSE revealed the following average scores: women's health empowerment 46.17±4.72, material supply for implementing the minimum initial service package in emergencies 17.79±2.42, basic knowledge of the minimum initial service package in emergencies 10.07±1.27, and strategy and education for the minimum initial service package in emergencies 10.87±1.72. Nursing students who were female, in their 3rd year, had income exceeding expenses, had mothers with primary/secondary education, and had knowledge in reproductive and sexual health showed significantly higher SRHKSE scores (p<.001). Conclusion: In our study, nursing students exhibited high levels of knowledge in sexual and reproductive health during emergency status. The levels of knowledge in sexual and reproductive health during emergency status were found to be affected by gender, academic year, income level, maternal education, and awareness of reproductive and sexual health. It is recommended to conduct different research on the subject and develop the literature.