An analysis of the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of registered nurses toward climate-driven vector borne diseases
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Date
2024
Authors
Vandenberg, Shannon Y.
University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Health Sciences
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Publisher
Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Health Sciences
Abstract
Background: There is abundant evidence that climate change is contributing to increasing rates of vector-borne diseases, affecting the health of Canadians. Registered nurses are central to a highly performing health care system and play an integral role in supporting individuals and populations affected by various health challenges. Purpose: The purpose of this quantitative, cross-sectional research study was to investigate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of registered nurses in Canada related to climate sensitive vector-borne diseases, namely Lyme disease and West Nile virus, using Planetary Health as the guiding theoretical framework. Methods: A national survey was distributed via QualtricsTM to practicing registered nurses in Canada, through contact with nursing organizations and regulatory bodies, as well as social media. Results: 382 survey responses were included in data analysis. Survey responses were received from nurses throughout Canada, working in a wide variety of practice areas. Research findings suggest that nurses’ knowledge on climate change and vector-borne diseases was limited, especially among frontline nurses and those in Western and Northern regions of Canada. There was greater knowledge of Lyme disease compared to West Nile virus, particularly among nurses working in endemic areas and among nurses who declared Indigeneity. Participants did not often consider vector-borne diseases in practice and demonstrated a lack of confidence and preparedness in addressing vector-borne diseases in the practice setting. Barriers to discussing vector-borne diseases in practice exist, with lack of knowledge and time reported most frequently. Most study participants never received training or education on vector-borne diseases, and information on the topic in the practice setting is absent. Most participants believed they have a role in health equity and social justice, particularly for equity-denied populations. Conclusion: A greater understanding of nurses’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices of climate driven vector-borne diseases has been achieved through the meaningful data obtained from study participants. Based on the findings, recommendations for education, practice, advocacy, and research are presented, with the goal that nurses are better educated, and subsequently more prepared to address vector-borne diseases in the practice setting and assume a greater role in leading change to advocate for a climate-resilient future.
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Keywords
climate change , vector borne diseases , Lyme disease , West Nile virus , registered nurse climate change readiness , planetary health practice readiness