No abstract

Use of CAM by women with breast cancer is believed to be increasing. However, limited data exist on the frequency and predictors of its use in this patient population; therefore, reliable and valid instruments are needed to determine use. If nurses can determine which CAM therapies women are employing, nurses can educate patients with breast cancer on the safe use of these therapies.

Background: Osteoporosis has rapidly evolved into a severe health threat to Americans and a major public health problem. The increasing incidence of this disease and related fractures mandates that continuing education include osteoporosis content to ensure nurses provide competent education and care. An osteoporosis educational program was presented to nurses as part of a continuing education symposium on women's health issues. The program was tested to determine its effectiveness in augmenting the osteoporosis-related knowledge and attitudes of nurses. Method: Eighty-one RNs with educational levels varying from associate degrees to doctorates attended the continuing education program. Sixty-three of the program participants completed pretest and posttest measures. Findings: The educational program significantly increased osteoporosis knowledge in this cohort of nurses. Additionally/ nurses indicated they were more likely to pay attention to their own bone health as a result of attending the program. Conclusion: Results of this study reinforce the need for osteoporosis-related continuing education.

Senior nursing students demonstrated limited knowledge related to the magnitude of osteoporosis, risk factors associated with the disease, detection, treatment and preventive measures. These findings should encourage educators to develop or enhance existing curricula to adequately prepare nurses to assume advocacy roles in both the practice settings and public policy arena regarding osteoporosis.