Knowledge and practices of female nursing students regarding the preventive measures of vaginal and urinary tract infections

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Lecturer in Obstetrics & Gynecologic Nursing -Alexandria University.

2 Assist. Prof in Obstetrics & Gynecologic Nursing- Alexandria University.

3 Lecturer in Medical Surgical Nursing -Alexandria University.

Abstract

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) and vaginal infections are common health concerns that can be prevented through proper hygiene and infection control practices. Assessing nursing students' knowledge and preventive behaviors is crucial for enhancing educational strategies and promoting effective prevention measures. Methodology: The current study aimed to assess the knowledge and practices of female nursing students regarding preventive measures for vaginal and urinary tract infections. A univariate descriptive exploratory research design was utilized in this study. The current study was conducted at the Faculty of Nursing, Alexandria University, Egypt. The study included 400 female nursing students who were randomly and proportionally selected to represent all female nursing students enrolled across the four academic levels during the second semester of the 2023–2024 academic year, with 100 students chosen from each level.  Data were collected using three tools: (1) a structured interview schedule to assess participants' baseline characteristics and clinical data, (2) an Assessment of Female Nursing Students’ Knowledge Regarding Preventive Measures for Vaginal and Urinary Tract Infections questionnaire (3). Assessment of female nursing students’ practices regarding preventive measures of vaginal and urinary tract infections . Results: The assessment of nursing students' knowledge regarding urinary tract infections (UTIs) revealed that more than three-quarters of study demonstrated a fair level of understanding. In contrast, knowledge about vaginal infections was higher, with more than half of students classified as having good knowledge and only a small percentage exhibiting poor knowledge. Regarding preventive practices, nearly all the students demonstrate satisfactory adherence, while only less than a quarter exhibited unsatisfactory practices. A statistically significant association was observed between knowledge and practice levels (p = 0.000), indicating that higher knowledge levels correlate with better adherence to preventive measures. Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that while the majority of nursing students exhibited a fair level of knowledge regarding urinary tract infections (UTIs), their understanding of vaginal infections was comparatively higher, with most students demonstrating good knowledge. Additionally, adherence to preventive practices was notably high, with the vast majority of students engaging in satisfactory behaviors. The statistically significant association between knowledge levels and preventive practices (p = 0.000) underscores the critical role of education in promoting adherence to infection prevention measures.  Recommendations: Enhancing educational programs strengthens nursing students’ knowledge of infection prevention, improving adherence to best practices and supporting complementary strategies like practical training and peer-led learning.

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