A Study to Assess the Knowledge on Swine Flu among Staff Nurses in Selected Hospital, Chennai

Swine flu has been one of the most infectious diseases with its dramatic global pandemic spread. Since its emergence nursing personnel are required to have an understanding regarding the disease condition. A descriptive study, therefore, was undertaken to assess the knowledge of swine flu among staff nurses in selected hospital, Chennai. The study samples consisted of 30 staff nurses who are working in various units and were selected using purposive sampling technique. In order to assess their knowledge a self structured questionnaire was developed. Self-made scoring system was used to categorize the participants as whether they have adequate knowledge, moderately adequate knowledge or inadequate knowledge on swine flu. Results revealed that 6 (20 %) of staff nurses had adequate knowledge, 21 (70 %) of staff nurses had moderately adequate knowledge and 3 (10 %) of staff nurses had inadequate knowledge about swine flu. Based on the results majority of the staff nurses had moderately adequate knowledge, it is therefore recommended that the nurses needs to upgrade their knowledge regarding swine flu as they play a vital role in educating the public about swine flu and caring for a swine flu client. Staff nurses should therefore be encouraged to update their knowledge through continuing education.