“A Descriptive Study to Assess the Knowledge Regarding Ebola Virus Disease among Nursing Students in Selected College of Nursing, Haridwar, Uttarakhand in a View to Develop Information Booklet”

Abstract

One of the true tests of headship is the skill to identify a problem before it becomes an emergency. Ebola virus also called Ebola hemorrhagic fever is rare but fatal illness. Ebola is named after the Ebola River in Zaire. It earliest emerged in Sudan and Zaire. These viruses are to be found in sun- Saharan Africa. This spreads through human to human transmission. It is transmitted to human population from wild animals such as fruit bats, chimpanzees, and monkeys. Often blood or body fluids of infected animals contains this virus and contact with it makes human vulnerable to Ebola virus disease (EVD). No vaccine as such available to combat this deadly disease. On the other hand, early detection of case and symptomatic treatment aid in fast recovery. The aim of the study was (1) to assess the knowledge regarding Ebola virus among nursing students, (2) to find association between knowledge score and demographic characteristics, and (3) to develop an information booklet on EVD based on knowledge of nursing students. Quantitative approach and descriptive design were used in the study. The study was conducted in Arihant College of Nursing, Haridwar. Convenient sampling technique was used to collect data from 60 subjects. Based on findings of the study, it was concluded that the mean knowledge score was 07.42 ± 2.28. A majority of subjects, 54 (90%) were having poor knowledge and 6 (10%) were having average knowledge regarding EVD. No subjects were having good knowledge regarding EVD. This study concluded that there is a need of upgrading knowledge and awareness regarding EVD among nursing students. Although it is not a disease of Asian region, chances of international spread are always there.