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Complementary and alternative medicine: oncology nurses' knowledge and attitudes
M Teresa Rojas-Cooley1, Marcia Grant
1Inland Valley Medical Center, Wildomar, CA, USA. trojas_cooley@verizon.net
Oncology Nursing Forum
|March 11, 2009
Summary
Oncology nurses demonstrate moderate complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) knowledge, with generally positive attitudes. Educational programs are recommended to enhance their ability to support patients with CAM information.
Area of Science:
- Nursing Research
- Integrative Oncology
- Health Sciences
Background:
- Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) is increasingly utilized by cancer patients.
- Oncology nurses play a crucial role in patient education and support regarding CAM therapies.
- Understanding nurses' current knowledge and attitudes is essential for effective CAM integration into oncology care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the knowledge levels of oncology nurses regarding complementary and alternative medicine (CAM).
- To evaluate the attitudes of oncology nurses towards the use and integration of CAM in patient care.
- To identify areas for educational development to improve nurses' CAM competency.
Main Methods:
- A descriptive, cross-sectional study design was employed.
- A national sample of 850 Registered Nurses (RNs) from the Oncology Nursing Society participated.
- Data were collected using a demographic questionnaire and the Nurse Complementary and Alternative Medicine Knowledge and Attitude survey, followed by descriptive and content analysis.
Main Results:
- Participants achieved a mean score of 70% on the CAM knowledge assessment.
- Oncology nurses' attitudes toward CAM were generally positive, though they varied based on beliefs, practice, and professional role.
- Content analysis of comments provided further insights into participants' perspectives on CAM.
Conclusions:
- Assessing oncology nurses' CAM knowledge and attitudes is vital for developing targeted educational initiatives.
- Enhanced CAM knowledge and positive attitudes among nurses can improve patient support and advocacy.
- This understanding is critical for implementing sustainable changes in healthcare delivery and promoting informed patient care.
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