Nurses’ Knowledge and Attitudes Toward Complementary and Alternative Medicine for Adult Patients With Cancer in Bandung, West Java, Indonesia: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

The aim of this study was to explore nurses' knowledge and attitudes toward the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) among cancer patients in a palliative care setting. A descriptive qualitative approach was used in this study. Semistructured interviews were conducted with 10 nurses recruited using purposive sampling. The data were analyzed using an inductive semantic approach. Thematic analysis identified that nurses possess limited knowledge of CAM. Nurses were skeptical toward CAM and less confident to recommend its use. Four main themes (and two subthemes) emerged: Understanding of CAM, Hesitative Attitudes, Personal Experience, and Preferences in Learning about CAM. There is a need to integrate CAM topics into nursing education programs in order to develop nurses' knowledge and build positive attitudes toward CAM use. Sufficient knowledge and positive attitudes toward CAM would support safety and quality of care in management of patients with cancer who use or are contemplating using CAM.

Nurses' knowledge and attitudes toward complementary therapies for cancer: A review of the literature

“…[30] Although the information obtained may be suitable, it is important that patients receive trusted information, based on evidence from qualified professional healthcare providers. [30] Nurses are one of the largest groups of healthcare providers who have regular contact with patients who have cancer.…”

“…[30] Although the information obtained may be suitable, it is important that patients receive trusted information, based on evidence from qualified professional healthcare providers. [30] Nurses are one of the largest groups of healthcare providers who have regular contact with patients who have cancer. [31] They play an important role in assisting patients with cancer and could be a credible information source to provide trusted advice for patients who seek information and are interested in the use of CTs.…”

“…Having a broader depth of knowledge on CTs could result in them being more confident to open communication regarding CTs with their patients. [1130] However, most of the studies reviewed were conducted in developed countries. There were no studies found that were conducted in developing countries.…”

“…Thus, it is suggested that further research to assess nurses’ knowledge and attitudes regarding the use of CTs for cancer management in developing countries is required as patients with cancer in these countries are likely to use CTs. [30]…”

“…For instance, in developing countries such as Indonesia, oncology care is practiced by registered nurses who may or may not be oncology-focused. [30] Therefore, this reviewed has focused on registered nurses’ in general of their knowledge and attitudes as well as nursing faculties and nursing students.…”