Studying the Impact of Palliative Care Education on Knowledge, Attitude, and Perceived Self-Efficacy of Nursing Students; [بررسي تأثير آموزش مراقبت تسكيني بر دانش، نگرش و خودكارآمدي درك شده دانشجويان پرستاري]



Dehghani F ; Khavari Z ; Fallah B ; Rezaeihaftadori Z ; Barkhordarisharifabad M
Source: HAYAT Published:2026

Abstract

Background & Aim: With the growing elderly population and increased survival rates, it is crucial to focus on the palliative care skills and knowledge of nursing students. This study aimed to assess the effect of palliative care education on the knowledge, attitude, and perceived self-efficacy of nursing students. Methods & Materials: This quasi-experimental study took place in 2025 with 32 nursing intern students from the Meybod/Yazd Nursing School. Participants' knowledge, attitude, and perceived self-efficacy were evaluated before and after a palliative care education intervention using a questionnaire. Perceived self-efficacy was also measured one-month post-intervention. The intervention consisted of six four-hour sessions of a palliative care education program. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 21 and descriptive and inferential statistical methods (paired t-test and analysis of variance with repeated measures). Results: Prior to the intervention, the mean scores for knowledge, attitude, and self-efficacy in palliative care were 26.90±3.76, 81.87±9.42, and 28.50±8.10, respectively. Following the intervention, the mean scores for knowledge (33.40±2.84), attitude (84.68±10.29), and self-efficacy (29.75±5.72) increased. One month later, the mean self-efficacy score rose to 32.37±6.52. The results indicated that only the increase in knowledge scores before and after the intervention was statistically significant (P<0.001). Conclusion: The findings suggest that palliative care education positively impacts the knowledge level of nursing students. Therefore, implementing educational programs in this area during the educational period can be beneficial. Copyright © 2026 The Authors.