Investigation of Scabies Awareness of Nursing and Elderly Care Students

Objectives: The aim of this study is to determine the awareness levels of Nursing and Elderly Care students about scabies. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted through an anonymous questionnaire consisting of closed-ended questions. The anonymous questionnaire consisting of closed-ended questions was administered to Nursing and Elderly Care students. Data wa collected using an online self-report questionnaire. Results: All 202 nursing (n=95) and older people care (n=107) students, 44 males and 158 females, completed the questionnaire. The average age of the students participating in the study was 19.9±1.7 years. The lowest knowledge score of the students was the one relating to the location of the scabies lesions. Students reported that they benefited most from the internet (n=78) and the least from books and articles (n=9) as a source of information. This study also underlines that students obtain information mostly from the internet. Conclusions: This study revealed that the academic knowledge level of Nursing and Elderly Care students about scabies was low. Our findings show that Nursing and Elderly Care students need academic knowledge to prevent scabies outbreaks and to prevent spreading. This deficiency in students needs to be addressed within the scope of formal education.