Abstract:

The aim of this study is to compare breast self-examination practice, health beliefs, and breast self-examination confidence among junior nursing students before and after enrollment in the integrated physical examination course. A sample group of 105 female sophomore-nursing students aged between 18 and 21 years (mean age = 19.58; SD = 0.7) from the School of Nursing Ramathibodi, Bangkok, Thailand was recruited.  The students received intervention instruction based on the Health Belief Model and the Self-efficacy Theory. The intervention consisted of a one-hour class session, and a small group demonstration and re-demonstration at a 6-week session, 30 minute per session.  Data were collected at the baseline and six months after the intervention using the instruments including: the Health Belief Questionnaire, the Breast Self-Examination Confidence Scale, and the Breast Self-Examination Practice Record Form.  Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and paired t-test.  Results reveal that the percentage of students practicing breast self-examination at least once a month after participating in the program was higher than at the baseline (62.8% VS 100%). Concerning the health beliefs, the students had a significant increase in the motivation subscale (r < .001).  Also, they had a significant increase in breast self-examination confidence (r < .001).  The findings of this study give direction to education programs designed to promote health practice among nursing students.