An evaluation of comparative strategies for teaching breast self-examination

This study compared the effects of three alternative methods of breast self-examination (BSE) instruction (booklet, film and group discussion, individual teaching) on nurses' personal BSE practice. A pre-test and follow-up questionnaire were administered to a convenience sample of 166 nurses from Western Australian hospitals. The results demonstrated that each method of BSE instruction produced a significant improvement in the technique of BSE (P < 0.0001). However, the nurses involved in the film and discussion had the greatest improvement in BSE proficiency. Findings were analysed in terms of the Health Belief Model. The variables 'barriers to action' and 'perceived susceptibility' (in this case, to breast cancer) were found to be predictive of BSE practice; 'perceived barriers' at pre-test and 'perceived susceptibility' at follow-up. The incidence of BSE was significantly higher in the older nurses. A reminder to practise BSE was significantly associated with an effective BSE technique. Implications for nursing practice are discussed.