Stem cells: Knowledge and attitude among health care providers

<p>Hanan Mohamed Mohamed Tork</p>

Stem cells: Knowledge and attitude among health care providers

Hanan Mohamed Mohamed Tork

Zagazig University, Egypt

: J Nurs Patient Care

Abstract

Background: Healthcare providers as a trusted source of information for most patients should be able to provide counseling services to patients on the new concept of stem cell utilization, benefits, and its practical implications. Objective: This study aims to assess the knowledge and attitude of health care providers in the Qassim region regarding stem cells. Methods: Self-administered tool was utilized among 250 health care providers were chosen from five major hospitals in Qassim including doctors, nurses, and other healthcare providers such as pharmacists, dietarians and administrative staff. Results: The most of the participants were female,<30 years in age, had practiced for <10 years and nurses. About 56% of respondents had a moderate knowledge regarding stem cells and only 31.2 % had good knowledge. About three quarters, 191 (76.4%) of the participants exhibited a positive attitude towards stem cell use. A Pearson’s correlation between knowledge and attitude scores was statistically significant. Conclusion: Data from the present study revealed the moderate level of knowledge and positive attitude toward stem cells and its application among healthcare providers in Qassim. Therefore, this study suggests that educational programs on stem cell should be implemented to improve stem cell knowledge and encourage a more positive attitude.