Knowledge about Osteoporosis and its related factors among nurses in Acute medical wards

Abstract

Aim The purpose of this study is to establish the knowledge nurses on acute general wards have in relation to the prevention, management treatment and identification of at risk individuals of osteoporosis, which will allow for the identification of whether or not further training or education is needed. Background Osteoporosis is a progressive and preventable disease that can have a crippling impact on the affected individuals if necessary precautions are not taken. 3 million people living in the United Kingdom and 250000 people living in Scotland are affected with osteoporosis (Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) 2003). In the UK, 1 in 2 women over the age of 65 and 1 in 5 men over the age of 50 will suffer from an osteoporosis fracture due to poor bone health and the incidence is predicted to rise due to the anticipated increase of the older population in the society (Cornwell et al. 2012; National Osteoporosis Society (NOS) 2013). In the UK, the direct medical and social cost for patients with a hip fracture is greater than £1.73 billion and is predicted to rise as a result of the anticipated increase of the older population in the society (Cummings and Melton 2002; WHO 2004; NOS 2013). Therefore, risk factors, preventative measures, management and treatment options for the disease need to be identified by nurses and followed to reduce the incidence and related fractures, as they play a significant role in health promotion. Methods A quantitative descriptive survey design will be used. A disproportionate stratified random sampling approach will be used. The inclusion criteria of the study participants will include registered nurses with a year experience and working in the acute medicine of the elderly wards where the individuals who are at risk of the disease are high (Conroy and Cooper 2012). The data collection method will be through a self- report questionnaire with closed questions. The statistical data collected will be used to describe and identify ward nurses' knowledge of osteoporosis. The results derived will be used to support the production of programmes and training to meet the needs of nurses.