KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICE OF ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE FOR COVID 19 AMONG NURSES IN PUDUCHERRY, INDIA

Background: Development of alternative medicine usage makes it necessary for nurses to be up to date about these treatments. However, much information is needed about the level of knowledge and practice of the nurses in this field.

Aim: The current study aimed to identify the level of knowledge and practice on selected alternative medicine for covid 19 among covid 19 positive nurses in Puducherry city, India.

Subjects and Methods: A descriptive study was conducted among COVID 19 positive nurses, in Puducherry. Sample size were 55, selected through convenient sampling. The quantitative approach was used and design was descriptive survey design. Data collected by using structured questionnaire related to demographic variables and knowledge level. practice was assessed by Likert scale.

Result: A total of 55 participants were recruited, majority of whom were female 42 (76.4%), and 44(80%) participants were aged between 18-30 years. The result shows that 39(70.9%)had heard about the alternative medicine and 33(60%) had not underwent any type of alternative medicine. The data show that 23(41.8%) had inadequate and moderate knowledge and 9(16.4%) had adequate knowledge, However,44(80%) had moderate practice and 5(9.1%) had adequate practice.

Conclusion: These study findings revealed that majority of nurses were aware about the alternative medicine practiced in the region. when the level of knowledge of selected alternative medicine for covid 19 increases their practice also will be increased.