Knowledge, Perception, and Attitude of Student Nurses on the Care of Clients Undergoing Chemotherapy

Abstract

Introduction: Cancer remains a major global health concern. Nurses are integral to the care of individuals with cancer. This study assessed student nurses' knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes regarding the care of clients undergoing chemotherapy, categorized by year level, chemotherapy unit exposure, and cancer patient exposure, at a private college in Iloilo City, Philippines, during the second semester of Academic Year 2025–2026. Methods: This study employed a descriptive correlational design and surveyed 275 of 960 student nurses. Stratified random sampling across levels 3 and 4 ensured representative participation. Data collection utilized a researcher-developed knowledge questionnaire and two validated instruments for attitude and perception. Descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation, frequency, and percentage) summarized the data. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test assessed normality, and Spearman’s rho evaluated correlations at α = 0.05 due to non-normal data distribution. Results: Student nurses exhibited a high level of knowledge (M = 6.68), an average level of perception (M = 2.73), and an average level of attitude (M = 2.29). Statistical analysis indicated a significant, but very weak, positive correlation between knowledge and attitude (p = 0.429), and a significant, moderate, positive correlation between perception and attitude (p < 0.001). Discussion: Although student nurses demonstrate strong theoretical knowledge of chemotherapy care, their perceptions and attitudes remain average. This finding highlights the need for increased clinical exposure and support to improve readiness for oncology nursing practice. Conclusion: The findings indicate that, despite adequate knowledge, student nurses continue to experience significant hesitations in chemotherapy care. The lack of significant differences across key variables highlights a persistent readiness gap. Perception demonstrates a significant moderate relationship with attitude, emphasizing the importance of their interplay. Guided by the Health Belief Model, these results underscore the necessity of robust educational strategies and direct clinical exposure to foster the confident attitudes required for safe and effective chemotherapy care. Recommendations: Efforts should focus on enhancing knowledge, confidence, and emotional preparedness among student nurses in chemotherapy care. Nursing educators are encouraged to strengthen oncology training by improving curriculum integration and increasing clinical exposure. Future research should employ larger samples, include additional variables, and incorporate qualitative methodologies.