A Survey Of HIV-Related Knowledge And Attitude Among Dental Nursing Students In South Western Nigeria

Abstract

AIM Abstract: Objective: To assess HIV-related knowledge and attitude among dental nursing students in South Western Nigeria. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey of the entire 97 final year dental nursing students from 4 colleges of health technology located in South Western Nigeria was conducted in University of Benin Teaching Hospital during their external clinical posting between June 2006 and June 2007. A self-administered questionnaire elicited information on demography, HIV/AIDS knowledge, source of information, interpersonal communication concerning HIV/AIDS, attitudes towards HIV testing, occupational risk perception and willingness to care for HIV patients. Results: Response rate was 91.8(89/97). About three quarter (73) was in 21-25 years age group. Male: Female ratio was approximately 1:12. The respondents' overall mean HIV/AIDS knowledge score was 13.21.8 out of 16 points. Level of knowledge was influenced by marital status, state of origin and sources of information (p0.05). Misconceptions about transmission by mosquito bite (29.2) and symptomatology (48.3) existed among respondents. Fifty-five (61.8) want HIV patients quarantined to prevent spread. The leading source of information was the electronic media 68(76.4); minor source was the internet 7(7.9). Interpersonal conversation on HIV/AIDS-related issues was commonly with classmates/friends (62.9). Majority (86) favoured compulsory HIV testing for dental nursing students. Over fourfifth (88.6) expressed willingness to render care to HIV infected patient. Fifty-one (57.3) expressed worry about HIV contagion through occupational exposure. Conclusion: Dental nursing students constitute a useful public HIV education resource but they lack in-depth knowledge of the subject. Comprehensive training to clarify existing misconceptions and reduce discriminatory behaviour is recommended