Effects on Nursing Students of Cognition-Behavior Integrated Breast Cancer Prevention Education Using an...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Public Health
• Oncology Nursing

Background:

• Breast cancer education is crucial for early detection.
• Nursing students require effective training to educate patients on breast self-examination (BSE).
• Traditional methods may not fully enhance competency in BSE education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of a novel cognition-behavior integrated breast cancer prevention education program.
• To assess the program's effect on nursing students' self-competency in performing and educating on breast cancer prevention.
• To determine if the use of a breast model with interchangeable nodules enhances learning.

Main Methods:

• A nonequivalent control group, non-synchronized design was employed.
• The experimental group received integrated education using a breast model; the control group received traditional lectures.
• The integrated program focused on strengthening cognitive and behavioral components of breast cancer education.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements were observed in breast cancer knowledge (p <.001).
• Participants showed increased breast cancer risk awareness (p <.05) and self-competency in BSE (p <.001).
• A significant increase in the intention to teach BSE was noted (p <.001).

Conclusions:

• The integrated education program effectively enhanced nursing students' knowledge and practical skills in breast examination.
• The use of simulation nodules improved competency, preparing students as confident educators.
• The program's success suggests its valuable application within academic nursing curricula for breast cancer prevention education.