Knowledge and attitude related to use of electronic cigarettes among undergraduate nursing students in an urban university setting in Philippines

Abstract

Background. Electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) use has risen dramatically since its introduction in 2004. Nurses play a critical role in screening, disease prevention and smoking cessation for their patient. Their knowledge and attitude related to e-cigarettes will play a major part in development of tobacco control activities.

Aim. Thus, this study was conducted to determine the knowledge and attitude toward e-cigarettes among undergraduate nursing students in the Philippines.

Methods. The participants of the study were 122 level four nursing students of West Visayas State University, Iloilo city, Philippines. A standardized self-administered questionnaire was used to collect the data and statistical analyses were performed.

Results. Majority of the participants were female, were never smokers and were aware or conscious of the existence of the e-cigarettes but had poor knowledge on e-cigarettes. Furthermore, in terms of attitude the students as an entire group had a positive attitude opposing e-cigarette use. Never and former smokers had positive attitude opposing e-cigarette use while current smokers had negative attitude supporting e-cigarette use. There was no significant relationship between knowledge and attitude of nursing students towards e-cigarettes.

Conclusion. Nursing students did not have adequate knowledge regarding e-cigarettes but maintained a positive attitude opposing e-cigarette use. Poor knowledge did not influence the attitude of participants towards e-cigarettes.