Exploring the relationship between pressure ulcer knowledge and self-efficiency among nursing students: A multicenter study

Aim: To determine the relationship between the knowledge and self-efficiency regarding pressure ulcers of nursing students. Methods: This descriptive and correlational study was conducted with 775 nursing students from three different universities in various regions of Turkey. The “Pressure Ulcer Knowledge Assessment Tool-Updated Version” and “Pressure Ulcer Management Self‐Efficiency Scale for Nurses” tool were used to collect data between May and September 2023. The Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies checklist was followed to report this study. Results: The mean knowledge score was 7.27 ± 3.09, and the mean self-efficiency on pressure ulcer management score was 35.5 ± 18.3. A statistically significant positive correlation was found between nursing students' knowledge and self-efficiency mean scores regarding pressure ulcers (p < 0.05). A significant difference was also found between the students’ academic levels and gender and their knowledge and self-efficiency scores regarding pressure ulcers. Conclusion: In this study, where the data covers these three institutions, students' pressure ulcer knowledge and self-efficiency scores were lower compared to all academic years. Accordingly, it was also determined that students with more nursing practice experience showed higher knowledge and self-efficacy scores than students with less nursing practice experience. Additionally, the students' self-efficacy increased along with their knowledge level. Training courses may be suggested to improve students’ knowledge and self-efficiency regarding pressure ulcers.