Breastfeeding Knowledge and Associated Factors Among Nursing Students in China: A Nationwide Cross-Sectional Study

Nurses' breastfeeding knowledge plays a significant role in promoting breastfeeding. Assessing nursing students' breastfeeding knowledge is crucial to devise effective educational strategies.

To assess breastfeeding knowledge among nursing students in mainland China and identify the factors associated with it.

A cross-sectional study was conducted to investigate the status of breastfeeding knowledge and its associated factors among Chinese nursing students (N = 1606). Data were collected through a network survey platform (WJX), utilizing a researcher-designed questionnaire and the Nursing Student's Knowledge about Breastfeeding Questionnaire. The associated factors were analyzed using independent sample t tests, one-way ANOVA, Pearson correlations, and multiple linear regression analyses.

The mean score for breastfeeding knowledge was 52.37 (SD = 27.39) out of 100. Passing is considered > 60. The breastfeeding knowledge score was higher in participants in their 3rd (β = 0.11, p < 0.001) and 4th year of study (β = 0.08, p = 0.006), and when participants reported deep breastfeeding-related learning (β = 0.21, p < 0.001). Lower knowledge levels were associated with incomplete breastfeeding related courses (β = -0.11, p < 0.001), no reported exposure to seeing breastfeeding (β = -0.08, p = 0.001), low confidence in effectively supporting breastfeeding (β = -0.11, p < 0.001), and a lack of enthusiasm for the profession of nursing (β = -0.06, p = 0.018).

This study suggests there is a need to adopt a more comprehensive approach to breastfeeding education in order to enhance nursing students' breastfeeding knowledge. This could improve what they can offer in practical experience towards supporting breastfeeding.