Knowledge and awareness of nursing students on the use of nanotechnology in healthcare

Abstract

Objective: To determine nursing students’ awareness of nanotechnology usage in healthcare and to increase their sensitivity to the subject in the coming years. Methods: This descriptive study was developed with 523 undergraduate nursing students. Data were collected using an online questionnaire between January and February 2018. Results: The mean age of the students was 21.7 ± 3.9 years; 61.6% were female. According to 29.4% of students, nanotechnology should be used in medicine and for 38.0%, it should be especially used in the diagnosis-treatment of diseases and the production of new medical equipment. The highest percentage (38.8%) of students affirmed that time saving is the advantage of nanotechnology, while 39.1% mentioned its toxic effects as a disadvantage. Students also stated it should be used in the diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, wound healing, and the production of new materials. Conclusion: According to results of the study, students achieved the information about nanotechnology with their efforts. They thought nanotechnology should be used more in medicine, especially in the diagnosis-treatment of diseases and in the production of new medical equipment. They determined that time-saving and toxic effects are the top advantage and disadvantage of nanotechnology, respectively. We suggest the importance of including this technology in service training in hospitals and in curricula of faculties.