Evaluation of the knowledge of nursing students about viral hepatitis

Abstract

Objective: to describe the knowledge of viral hepatitis among nursing students in two institutions located in two different geographical areas of Brazil. Method: a descriptive, exploratory and quantitative study where 180 students were selected from two nursing higher education institutions (102 in Rio de Janeiro, Southeast and 78 of Mato Grosso do Sul, Midwest), who answered a questionnaire composed of 37 questions about socio-demographic factors and level of knowledge about viral hepatitis after signing a consent form. For data evaluation, a score of knowledge about hepatitis was created based on participants' responses, where low (0-21 correct answers), (22-28 correct answers) and excellent (29 - 37 correct answers). The variables: age, sex and place of residence were used to assess knowledge of hepatitis and sociodemographic characteristics. This study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the University of Rio Grande (RJ) (protocol number CAAE 0006.0.317.000-08). Results: the mean knowledge about viral hepatitis was 25.95 ± 4.79 showing a good knowledge about viral hepatitis in this population. However, some gaps were analyzed for transmission of viral hepatitis, etiology, and symptoms as well as significant differences in knowledge scores between students from different geographical areas. Conclusions: despite the good general knowledge on the subject, it is necessary to enhance awareness and training strategies on viral hepatitis among nursing students to increase knowledge on this topic.