Knowledge Scores Research Articles

The Influence of Tepuk Tebak Games as Occupational Health and Safety Education on the Knowledge Level of Hair Salon Workers and Customers

Working in a hair salon involves exposure to various potential hazards, such as harmful chemicals from hair care products, the risk of injury from sharp tools, and non-ergonomic working postures. These issues can be addressed by enhancing workers' knowledge of occupational safety and health practices by providing education using available educational media. This study aims to analyze the impact of implementing educational media in the form of games on increasing knowledge among salon workers and clients using salon services. The research method used is a pre-experimental study with a single-group pre-test and post-test design. The data obtained comes from two types of sources: primary data and secondary data. Primary data were collected through interviews and direct field observations using a questionnaire as the research instrument, while secondary data were obtained through a literature review. The study showed a significant increase in workers' knowledge after being educated through games. The average knowledge score of workers increased from 45 (pre-test) to 97.5 (post-test). Similarly, salon clients' knowledge also significantly increased from an average score of 67.76 (pre-test) to 93.16 (post-test), with a p-value (<0.001).

Students perceptions & motivation for ‘Basic Pranic Healing workshop’ and its impact on the well-being of medical students

Pranic Healing (PH) is an ancient energy healing method focusing on the body's energy fields. The study explores its potential positive impact on the well-being of medical students. Existing research supports the transformative effects of PH on molecular structures and overall well-being. Spiritual well-being has been linked to mental health, and the study aims to evaluate the connection between Basic Pranic Healing workshops and students' mental health in a stressful medical school environment.This retrospective observational pilot study recruited 50 medical students through purposive sampling. Participants from Dr. Baba Saheb Ambedkar Medical College, Delhi, India, completed pre and post-workshop questionnaires, assessing knowledge, attitude, interest, motivation, and impact on well-being. Data were analyzed using SPSS, employing descriptive statistics and relevant tests.45 interested students participated, with a mean age of 20.78±2.09, 68.8% female. Significant improvements were observed in pre and post-workshop scores for knowledge (p = 0.00), interest (p = 0.00), and confidence (p = 0.00). Beliefs shifted positively with a final favorable perception . Participants reported a positive impact on various life domains with 56% practicing learned techniques weekly. Efficacy in healing (73.4%) and self-healing (84.4%) was notable The Basic Pranic Healing workshop effectively enhanced participants' knowledge, interest, confidence, beliefs, and overall perceptions. Positive impacts on various life domains and high success rates in healing demonstrate the practical relevance of Pranic Healing in promoting well-being. Findings support the integration of holistic healing practices in healthcare training and personal development programs.

Improving uptake of COVID-19 testing and vaccination in a homeless population: mixed-methods evaluation of community health worker-led education in a shelter

ObjectivesAccess to healthcare and accurate health information is a persistent issue for people experiencing homelessness (PEH), one heightened by the COVID-19 pandemic and exacerbated by issues of health literacy and...

Knowledge, attitude and practice towards postoperative management among patients with type A aortic dissection or their relatives: a cross-sectional study in China

ObjectivesTo assess the knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) of patients with type A aortic dissection (AD) or their relatives regarding postoperative management.DesignCross-sectional study.SettingThe participants were recruited from three hospitals between...

The Effect of Puzzles on Nursing Students' Learning Concepts Related to Vital Signs: A Randomized Controlled Study.

This study aims to evaluate the effect of puzzles on nursing students' learning concepts related to vital signs. This study has a pretest, posttest, open-label, randomized controlled design. The sample in the study consists of 107 first-year nursing students who were randomized into experimental (n = 52) and control (n = 55) groups. Puzzles related to the concepts of pulse, respiration, and blood pressure were applied to the experimental group of students for 2 weeks. It was determined that the posttest and follow-up test knowledge scores of the experimental group were statistically significantly higher (p = .000) than the control group. In the study, it was seen that puzzles were effective in learning concepts related to vital signs (p < .05). The use of puzzles, one of the interactive learning methods, is recommended throughout nursing education. [J Nurs Educ. 2024;63(X):XXX-XXX.].

The effectiveness of health promotion (audiovisual and leaflet) on adolescents' behavior regarding breast self-examination

Introduction: Breast cancer is a leading cause of mortality among women worldwide. Early Breast Self-Examination (BSE) detection can be crucial in reducing late-stage diagnosis and improving survival rates. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of audiovisual media and leaflet-based health promotion on adolescents' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding breast self-examination. Research Methodology: This type of research is quantitative. The design used is the pre-test-posttest control group design, which is considered relevant to the assessment of health education or training initiatives. The sampling method used is random sampling. The paired t-test was used for data analysis, and the independent t-test was used to compare the variation in knowledge scores between the two treatments. Result: Paired tests showed that the average knowledge score of the V2 group was higher than that of the V1 group (20.934 vs. 10.208) in the pre-test to post-test-1, with a significant increase in knowledge (p&lt;0.05) between the two groups. Similarly, the average knowledge score of the V2 group was higher than that of the V1 group (19.646 vs. 7.183) in the pre-test to post-test-2, and their attitude change was more significant than that of the V1 group (7.980 vs. 2.765). However, in the pre-test to post-test-1, the attitude change between the V1 and V2 groups was insignificant (p&gt;0.05). Likewise, the average attitude change score of the V2 group in the pre-test to post-test-2 was higher than that of the V1 group (6.555 vs. 2.009), although the difference was not statistically significant (p&gt;0.05). Conclusion: This study concludes that the leaflet approach to adolescents' behavior regarding breast self-examination (BSE) substantially impacts improving knowledge and attitudes about the effectiveness of health promotion before and after its implementation.

Women's healthcare providers' knowledge and practices surrounding fragile-X associated primary ovarian insufficiency (FXPOI).

This study investigates the knowledge gaps about fragile X-associated primary ovarian insufficiency (FXPOI) among women's healthcare providers. Previous research highlighted a lack of awareness regarding FXPOI as a cause of primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) and its diagnosis. The objective of this study was to describe these gaps and explore demographic factors influencing FXPOI knowledge in women's healthcare practitioners. A survey assessed familiarity with primary ovarian insufficiency and FXPOI knowledge among 107 women's healthcare providers and 14 medical students in the USA. Knowledge Scores, ranging from 0 to 16, were assigned, and demographic data, including healthcare provider type, specialty, and genetics exposure in education or training, were collected. Participants scored an average of 6.92 (± 2.19) out of 16 (42%) despite 88% of participants reporting genetics exposure in training. Maternal fetal medicine (MFM) and reproductive endocrinology (REI) providers significantly outperformed general obstetrics and gynecology (OBGYN) practitioners (p = 0.0186 and 0.0125, respectively). Participants with a genetic counselor in their clinic scored 8% higher (p = 0.0083) than those without. Additionally, medical school graduation year was a significant predictor for knowledge score (p = 0.0397). This study underscores limited FXPOI knowledge among women's healthcare providers, aligning with patient reports. Notably, medical specialty and the presence of a genetic counselor impacted knowledge, emphasizing the urgency for broader education in women's healthcare, particularly among OBGYNs, the initial point of contact for patients with POI symptoms.

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Toward Antibiotic Use in Food-Producing Animals Among University Students in Seven Cities in Southern and Central China: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: The misuse of antibiotics in both humans and food-producing animals poses significant risks to human health and contributes to the rise of antibiotic resistance. Raising public awareness is crucial to managing antibiotic resistance, particularly among university students, as they represent a future force in tackling this global issue. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from July 2022 to May 2024 in seven cities in Southern and Central China to assess university students’ knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding antibiotic use in humans and food-producing animals. Binary logistic regression was used to identify associated factors. Results: A total of 6357 students from 72 universities participated. Less than half of the students answered the knowledge items appropriately. Only 21.47% to 29.98% had a proper understanding of basic antibiotic concepts and their use in humans and food-producing animals. Respectively, 21.49% and 28.50% students paid attention to antibiotic content in food from food-producing animals and refused to buy food containing antibiotics. Factors associated with higher knowledge, attitude, and practice total scores included being male, being of older age, having a postgraduate education, majoring in the medical science discipline, studying at a double-first-class university, having a higher family monthly income, having parents in the medical area, and using antibiotics in the past year (p &lt; 0.001). Conclusions: Given students’ insufficient knowledge—particularly in identifying antibiotics and understanding their functions—and inappropriate practices related to purchasing food from food-producing animals, targeted education programs are suggested. These programs should address the fundamental concepts of antibiotic use in both humans and food-producing animals while providing practical guidance on individual behaviors to help mitigate antibiotic resistance.

Knowledge, attitudes and practices among patients with periodontal disease toward disease management

IntroductionPeriodontal disease is a common chronic inflammatory condition that affects oral health and carries broader public health implications. This study aimed to assess the levels of knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) among patients with periodontal disease toward disease management.MethodsThis cross-sectional web-based study was conducted between March 2022 and March 2023. A self-administered questionnaire was designed to evaluate KAP toward disease management.ResultsA total of 514 questionnaires were collected. Among the patients, 313 (60.89%) of them were female, 309 (60.12%) resided in urban areas and 130 (25.29%) reported having severe periodontal disease. The mean scores of knowledge, attitudes and practices were 3.05 ± 2.03 (possible range: 0–8), 18.71 ± 3.64 (possible range: 6–30), and 14.85 ± 3.63 (possible range: 5–25), respectively. The knowledge item with highest correctness rate was the link between periodontal disease and systemic health (60.70%), while the lowest correctness rate was seen for understanding disease classification (36.96%). Pearson’s analysis revealed positive correlations between knowledge and attitude (r = 0.31, p &amp;lt; 0.001), knowledge and practices (r = 0.23, p &amp;lt; 0.001) attitudes, as well as attitudes and practices (r = 0.17, p &amp;lt; 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that knowledge (OR = 1.30, 95% CI: 1.14–1.49, p &amp;lt; 0.001), age ≥ 33 years old (OR = 0.33, 95% CI: 0.18–0.62, p = 0.001), housewife/househusband (OR = 0.41, 95% CI: 0.17–0.95, p = 0.037) and student (OR = 0.43, 95% CI: 0.20–0.92, p = 0.029) were independently associated with practices.ConclusionPatients with periodontal disease had insufficient knowledge, negative attitudes, and passive practices toward disease management. Further efforts could be directed toward enhancing patient education on periodontal disease to improve knowledge, thereby positively influencing attitudes and disease management practices.

Are knowledge, attitudes and practices about dietary supplements and nutraceuticals related with exercise practice and setting? A cross-sectional study among Italian adults

This cross-sectional study was aimed to investigate knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding dietary supplements (DS) and nutraceuticals among athletes, gym practitioners, and individuals who did not exercise regularly. A total of 372 participants, aged 18–65, completed a questionnaire covering demographics, supplement usage, and three validated tools: the Knowledge about Dietary Supplements (KaDS), Supplements Knowledge Score (SKS), and Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice towards Nutraceuticals (KAPN). Significant differences were found in the use of vitaminised water, protein powder, glucosamines, beetroot juice, creatine, omega-3, and pre-workout supplements among the groups, with gym practitioners reporting the highest usage. Athletes scored the highest in knowledge of DS effects on health, while both athletes and gym practitioners scored higher than non-exercisers in knowledge related to sports supplements. However, all groups showed inadequate knowledge of nutraceuticals, and moderately positive attitudes towards these products. Older participants performed better in knowledge questionnaires. These findings suggest that gym practitioners, inactive and young people could benefit most from educational interventions regarding dietary supplementation.

Compliance with care standards and professional knowledge of operating theatre personnel before, during and after laparoscopic bariatric surgery: A study in public hospitals in Iran.

By adhering to care standards, many adverse outcomes for patients, such as pressure injuries, tissue necrosis and patient falls, can be prevented. The aim of this study was to investigate the level of compliance with care standards before, during and after various types of bariatric surgeries. This study was a cross-sectional descriptive study conducted in the operating theatres of selected teaching hospitals in Isfahan (Iran). The study sample consisted of all operating theatre personnel in the selected teaching hospitals who met the inclusion criteria. Compliance with care standards was measured using a researcher-developed checklist. A researcher-developed questionnaire with 43 true/false questions was used to evaluate the operating theatre personnel's professional knowledge. The data were analysed using SPSS version 20 and descriptive and inferential statistics. The mean score of adherence to care standards and the mean score of professional knowledge of operating theatre personnel regarding care of laparoscopic bariatric surgery were 78.35 ± 9.49 and 29.45 ± 6.17, respectively. There is no significant relationship between these two variables, with a two-tailed significance (Sig.) of 0.056 and a correlation coefficient (r) of 0.199. In general, it can be concluded that the specific knowledge of the local operating theatre personnel regarding minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery care is at an intermediate level. Requirements for training in this area were therefore successfully identified. In addition, not all operating theatre personnel adhere to the standards of care for patients undergoing laparoscopic bariatric surgery. This non-adherence could be due to insufficient training or the absence of established standards in hospitals.

Teach back educational strategy on knowledge about breast cancer among low health literate women

BackgroundThis randomized controlled trial examines the effectiveness of a “teach-back” educational strategy in increasing knowledge about breast cancer among women with low health literacy.MethodsData collection for this study was conducted at the Farabi Comprehensive Health Services Center in Sanandaj, Iran, between December 2020 and October 2022. In this randomized controlled trial, 84 women who had low health literacy were randomly allocated into groups of the study (teach back, and control groups). The educational intervention focused on increasing knowledge of breast cancer risk factors, signs and symptoms, early detection methods (including breast self-examination), and the importance of regular screening. The intervention group received 3 face to face education within three weekly sessions, each lasting 20 min. The Health Literacy Instrument for Adults (HELIA), breast cancer knowledge was measured by valid tool and compared in the two groups before and eight weeks after the interventions.ResultsMean scores of breast cancer knowledge revealed significant differences between intervention group and control group (P < 0.001) eight weeks after intervention. There were significant differences between baseline and follow-up measurement scores demonstrating that there were differences in the participants’ breast cancer knowledge (P < 0.001), and diagnosis technique knowledge (P < 0.008), between the intervention and control groups.ConclusionTeach Back educational strategy increased knowledge breast cancer among low health literacy women. Teach Back educational strategy seems to be effective for women with low health literacy.

Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Stroke Patients' Family Members Towards Stroke Rehabilitation: A Cross-Sectional Study

BackgroundThis study aimed to explore the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) among family members of stroke patients regarding stroke rehabilitation. MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted on the family members of stroke patients at the China Rehabilitation Research Center from February 15 to May 2, 2024. This study collected demographic data and KAP scores through a self-designed questionnaire. ResultsThe study enrolled 517 family members, of which 344 (66.54%) were male. The mean scores for knowledge, attitude, and practice were 12.01 ± 5.46 (possible range: 0-20), 49.40 ± 4.96 (possible range: 11-55), and 41.93 ± 7.49 (possible range: 10-50), respectively. Correlation analyses demonstrated a significant positive relationship between knowledge and attitude (r = 0.501, P < 0.001), knowledge and practice (r = 0.471, P < 0.001), and attitude and practice (r = 0.441, P < 0.001). Structural Equation Modeling indicated that showed that knowledge directly affected attitude (β = 0.481, P = 0.004) and practice (β = 0.351, P = 0.009), and attitude directly affected practice (β = 0.244, P = 0.007). Additionally, knowledge indirectly affected practice through attitude (β = 0.117, P = 0.006). ConclusionsThis study identified significant gaps in knowledge, despite generally positive attitudes and proactive practices among family members of stroke patients regarding stroke rehabilitation. This highlights the necessity for tailored educational programs for family members to address these knowledge gaps.

Beyond the scoreboard: Coaches' UV-related skin cancer knowledge in outdoor sports.

The global rise in UV radiation is widely recognized as one of the most relevant health impacts of climate change. Consequently, the prevalence of skin cancer is experiencing a significant increase, with outdoor athletes being identified as a particularly vulnerable population group. This study aims to investigate the extent of UV-specific skin cancer knowledge among coaches in outdoor sports and to examine potential variations in this knowledge between different sports, coach- and club-specific factors. This nationwide representative study was conducted among outdoor sports coaches from the 10 largest outdoor sports associations in Germany. Their knowledge of the risks associated with UV radiation and prevention measures were evaluated using the Skin Cancer and Sun Knowledge Scale (SCSK Scale). Out of 1200 participating trainers, the UV-specific skin cancer knowledge score averaged 17.76 (±2.98) on a scale ranging from 0 to 25. The true-false statements 'A tan is a sign that the skin is damaged' (true) and 'When using sunscreen, you can tan without any negative effects' (false) were most frequently answered incorrectly. Only 16% of participants correctly identified basal cell carcinoma as the most prevalent form of skin cancer. Differences in UV-specific skin cancer knowledge were evident across different sports, with football and tennis coaches showing the major knowledge deficits. Conversely, trainers in skiing, swimming and mountain sports demonstrated the highest levels of knowledge. Significant deficiencies in knowledge were particularly notable among male trainers, as well as those from the youngest and the oldest age group, with limited training experience and who primarily worked with children and adolescents in small clubs on a regular basis. Serious knowledge deficiencies are evident among German outdoor sports coaches. The study results emphasize the necessity for enhanced coach education and the implementation of evaluated concepts for climate adaptation in sports.

Rural residents’ Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice in relation to infection risk during the late stage of an epidemic: a cross-sectional study of COVID-19

BackgroundIn the field of public health, the prevention and management of infectious diseases in rural regions have always been crucial. This study aims to analyze the factors influencing rural residents’ Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices and their correlation with infection risk during the late stage of an epidemic, with a focus on the COVID-19 case.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted in rural regions of China’s Guangdong province, using a multi-stage sampling technique to select rural residents for a validated questionnaire survey in February 2023. Descriptive statistical method was used to describe the infection status of rural residents and Chi-Square Test was used to explore the influencing factors of Knowledge, Attitude and Practice in this population. Multivariable binary logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine the presence of a statistically significant association between explanatory variables and outcome variables at corresponding 95% CI.ResultsA total of 3,125 rural residents were investigated, of whom 805 had never been infected with COVID-19. The survey participants had an average score of 5.84 ± 1.419 for COVID-19 knowledge. (The total score range is from 0 to 8. A score greater than 6.4 indicates good knowledge acquisition.) Regarding the attitude and practice sections, the average scores were 23.68 ± 3.169 and 23.45 ± 5.030, respectively. (The total score range of both these sections is from 0 to 32. A score greater than 25.6 represents positive attitudes and good practices.) The reduction of COVID-19 risk is significantly associated with an increase in Knowledge scores (p trend &amp;lt; 0.01). In stratified analyses, the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices scores of residents in each region have varying degrees of correlation with the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection.ConclusionRural residents’ Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices on COVID-19 prevention and control requires improvement. Efforts to promote their’ perceptions and habits regarding COVID-19 prevention and control are crucial in reducing the risk of infection.

Factors influencing engagement in oral cancer prevention activities among dental students and professionals in Saudi Arabia

BackgroundOral cancer is a pressing health concern in the Saudi Arabia (SA), with rising incidence and mortality rates. Despite the efforts in raising awareness, gaps persist in knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to oral cancer prevention (OCP) among dental health professionals. This study aimed to identify the key factors influencing engagement in oral cancer prevention activities among dental students and professionals in Saudi. It examines the impact of socio-demographic characteristics and assesses their KAP related to oral cancer prevention.MethodA cross-sectional study was conducted between November 2023 and February 2024 using a pre-validated online questionnaire distributed among oral health providers across various regions and sectors in SA. The survey included questions about participants’ KAP toward OCP. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression analyses were used to analyze the data.ResultsOut of 400 oral health providers invited, 157 completed the survey. The findings showed a discrepancy between knowledge and practice. While awareness of OC was generally high, this did not consistently lead to favourable attitudes or effective practices. The engagement in OCP activities was significantly associated with good knowledge, practice and favourable attitude scores. Profession significantly influenced participation, with clinicians (P = 0.013, OR = 0.131, 95% CI: 0.026–0.653) and those in administrative roles (P = 0.030, OR = 0.101, 95% CI: 0.013–0.804) both less likely to participate compared to dental students. Knowledge was a significant predictor (P = 0.002), with providers demonstrating poor knowledge being far less likely to participate (OR = 0.053, 95% CI: 0.008–0.339).ConclusionThe study identified a critical need for enhancing OCP education and training among oral health providers in SA. The findings indicate that continuous, targeted, and culturally sensitive training could bridge the existing KAP gap, potentially leading to improved early detection and management of OC, thereby reducing its morbidity and mortality rates in the region.

A quantitative survey on exposures, knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to swine influenza among villagers in different regions of Thailand

This analytical cross-sectional study aimed to determine factors influencing knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) toward the swine influenza virus (SIV) among pig farm owners, workers, and villagers in selected provinces of Thailand. This study was carried out from February to December 2022 in pig farms and villages across the provinces. A structured and standardized quantitative questionnaire was utilized to collect data on socio-demographic variables and KAP related to SIV from 215 participants. The quantitative data was analyzed in two steps using R software. The study findings showed that the average knowledge score on SIV was 6.92 out of 12, indicating moderate understanding of SIV in study participants. Attitudes towards SIV were generally positive, with an average score of 3.74 out of 5. Practices for SIV prevention averaged a score of 3.63 out of 5. Key factors associated with better SIV knowledge included higher education levels, higher monthly income, and direct involvement in vaccination processes. Moreover, those with higher education, employment on pig farms, and prior vaccination experience showed more positive attitudes towards SIV. Occupations related to pig farming and the availability of vaccination services significantly influenced SIV prevention practices. The findings highlighted that improved education and stronger connections with healthcare professionals and the pig farming sector may significantly enhance KAP regarding SIV among targeted populations. In contrast, participants with limited exposure to health services or pig farming activities, such as nearby villagers, require specialized educational interventions. This study recommends that local health authorities should develop and implement communication strategies and interventions focused on educating pig farm owners, managers, and villagers about SIV to mitigate the risks associated with SIV and other zoonotic diseases.

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Training and Its Impact on Health Care Students' Knowledge and Anxiety Levels

Purpose: This study examines the impact of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training on the knowledge and anxiety levels of healthcare students in the Home Patient Care Program. Cardiac arrest, a life-threatening condition requiring immediate intervention, underscores the critical importance of proper CPR application. Methodology: The research utilized an experimental design with pre-test and post-test evaluations, involving 77 first-year students from Kastamonu University's Tosya Vocational School of Health Services. Participants were divided into experimental (n=34) and control (n=43) groups. The experimental group received five weeks of CPR and stress-anxiety management training based on the European Resuscitation Council's 2015 guidelines. Data were collected using a CPR knowledge questionnaire and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). Findings: Results revealed significant improvements in the CPR knowledge scores of the experimental group, increasing from 3.47 (±1.73) to 10.09 (±1.68) (p &lt; 0.001). Concurrently, their state anxiety levels decreased from 45.09 (±10.54) to 38.50 (±9.08) (p &lt; 0.001), and trait anxiety scores showed a moderate reduction. No significant changes were observed in the control group. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The findings highlight the necessity of integrating CPR training with stress and anxiety management programs in healthcare education. Such training enhances students' ability to perform CPR effectively and reduces psychological barriers, ultimately improving patient outcomes. Further research with broader samples is recommended to validate these results.

Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of primary caregivers of gastric cancer patients regarding postoperative dietary management

BackgroundFamily caregivers of gastric cancer (GC) patients after gastrectomy have a strong demand for nutrition knowledge. This study investigates the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of primary caregivers of GC patients regarding postoperative dietary management.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study, collecting data through questionnaire distribution. Demographic information of the respondents and KAP scores were assessed and analyzed.ResultsOf 508 included participants, majority were female (59.84%) urban residents (78.94%), aged 40–60 years (53.15%). Caretakers were primarily spouses of GC patient (50.39%) or parents (10.43%), only child (12.99%) or non-only child (24.21%). Notable percentage of poor knowledge and practice was found among participants (45.05% and 40.55%, respectively), while attitude was predominantly positive (99.41%). Correlation analysis revealed a weak positive correlation between knowledge and attitude scores (r = 0.150, P < 0.001) and negative link to practice scores (r=-0.228, P < 0.001); attitude scores were positively correlated with practice (r = 0.117, P = 0.008). Multivariate logistic regression analysis found that higher attitude scores were independently associated with higher practice scores (OR = 1.360; 95%CI, 1.223–1.513), P < 0.001), while higher knowledge scores (OR = 0.684; 95%CI, 0.575–0.815), P < 0.001), older age (OR = 0.951; 95%CI, 0.918–0.985), P = 0.005), duration of caregiving > 3 months (3–6 months (OR = 0.415; 95%CI, 0.193–0.894, P = 0.025); 6 months-1 year (OR = 0.269; 95%CI, 0.120–0.606), P = 0.002); >1 year (OR = 0.290; 95%CI, 0.120–0.705), P = 0.006), and follow-up location after patient’s surgery (OR = 0.072 (0.033–0.160), P < 0.001) were independently associated with lower practice scores.ConclusionsFamily caregivers of GC patients that participated in this study demonstrated moderate knowledge and practice, but positive attitude towards dietary management after gastrectomy.

Socioeconomic factors and test preparation strategies are related to success on the USMLE Step 2 clinical knowledge (CK) exam: a single-institution study

BackgroundSince the elimination of numerical scoring of the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1, the perceived importance of USMLE Step 2 Clinical Knowledge (CK) scores in residency placement has increased. It is known that socioeconomic status (SES) and other demographic factors can be barriers to success in standardized assessment, but few recent studies report the relationship between student demographics, including SES, with Step 2 CK scores in the context of exam practice material access and usage. In this study, we investigated predictors of Step 2 CK success across two years at one institution.MethodsA survey regarding Step 2 CK exam preparation and demographic factors was administered to two student cohorts at a New York medical school in 2022 and 2023. The cohorts were comprised of all students in a given class year who had taken Step 2 CK. De-identified survey responses were linked to metrics including Step 1, Step 2 CK, shelf exam, and Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) scores.ResultsThe mean Step 2 CK score among the respondents (n = 213) was 254 ± 13. There was a strong positive correlation between Step 2 CK score and composite shelf scores (rho = 0.80, p < 0.01). Almost all participants used the UWorld question-bank to prepare for the exam (98.1%), and completion of more than 2500 unique questions was associated with better exam performance (256 vs. 252, p = 0.04). On bivariate analysis, students had significantly lower mean Step 2 CK scores if they self-identified as socioeconomically disadvantaged (SED) (250 vs. 256, p < 0.01) and self-reported that financial limitations prevented them from purchasing study resources (249 vs. 257, p < 0.01). In adjusted models, there was no longer a relationship between self-identified SED and Step 2 CK score (beta=-3.50, 95% CI (-8.25, 1.26), p = 0.15).ConclusionsThis study provides insight into the relationship between exam performance, study habits, and demographic factors at a single institution where students, on average, performed above the national mean on Step 2 CK. Results support that Step 2 CK scores are modulated by a high composite shelf score, number of unique UWorld questions completed, dedicated study period length, and socioeconomic inequity.Trial registrationStudy registered with our institutional IRB (IRB number 20177537).