Knowledge and perceptions of health literacy among nursing professionals

Low health literacy affects nearly half of the U.S. population. Health care professionals may not recognize low health literacy in their patients nor understand its impact on health outcomes. The purpose of this pilot study was to describe nurses' knowledge and perceptions of low health literacy on patients, their practice, and the health system. This cross-sectional, descriptive study used a web-based survey to assess the knowledge and perceptions of health literacy among nursing professionals. Registered nurses licensed by the State of California were randomly selected and invited to participate in the study. Data analysis included descriptive statistics to describe nursing professionals' general knowledge and perceptions. Qualitative textual analysis was done on participant responses to a survey question that asks participants to define health literacy using their own words. Results of this study revealed that nursing professionals' knowledge of health literacy and their understanding on the role health literacy plays on patient health outcomes is limited. Health literacy was also reported to be a low priority among providers and organizations. Nursing plays an important role in direct patient care and in the delivery of health services. Educating nurses on health literacy and improving patient communication and understanding can improve health outcomes.