Conference Proceedings - School of Nursing & Midwifery - Trinity ...

School of Nursing & Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin: 8 th Annual Interdisciplinary Research Conference
Transforming Healthcare Through Research, Education & Technology: 7 th – 9 th November 2007
Conference Proceedings
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Hepatitis C virus infection – knowledge and attitudes
amongst primary care nurses in Ireland
Ms Kate Frazer, MPH., BSc., HDip HCRM., RGN.
School of Public Health and Population Science, UCD, Belfield Dublin 4.
Kathleen.frazer@ucd.ie
Telephone 01 7163449
Dr Barbara Coughlan, PhD., MA., BA., RGN., RM.
School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Systems, UCD, Belfield
Dublin 4.
Professor Anthony Staines, PhD., MSc., MB, BCh, BAO, BA.
School of Nursing, DCU, Dublin 9.
Background
Hepatitis C virus infection (HCV) is responsible for significant
morbidity and mortality, with 3% of the world’s population infected
(WHO 2000). In Ireland, the discovery of HCV provoked a health
crisis. HCV is associated with high-risk groups inclusive of
intravenous drug users, homeless people and sex workers. Amongst
these cohorts, prevalence remains highest HCV prevention and
detection are pivotal to disease management. Nurses are key
players in the primary care developments; they have a role in
reducing the burden of this disease.
Aim
The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge and attitudes of
primary care nurses towards persons with HCV.
Objectives
� Undertake a survey of community nurses to ascertain
knowledge and attitudes to HCV
� Identify sources of information on HCV
� Identify a need for a HCV educational resource
Methodology
A census postal survey of community nurses working in the HSE
eastern region was undertaken. Nurses invited to participate
included the public health nursing service, practice nurses and
nurses working in the addiction services. An Australian
questionnaire was adapted for the Irish setting. It contained five
sections - demographics, practice, knowledge, attitudes and
education.
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