Knowledge, attitudes toward palliative care and related factors among nursing students at Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy

Abstract

Objectives: To assess the knowledge and attitudes toward palliative care of nursing students and explore associated factors. Methods:A cross-sectional study was conducted among 102 nursing students at Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy in 2025. Knowledge of palliative care was measured using the Palliative Care Knowledge Test (PCKT), and attitudes were assessed using the Frommelt Attitudes Toward Care of the Dying Scale Form B (FATCOD-B). Results:The average knowledge score on palliative care was 10.89 ± 2.43 (ranging from 4 to 17), and the average attitude score was 104.10 ± 7.36 (ranging from 90 to 121). There was a statistically significant positive correlation between nursing students’ knowledge and attitudes toward palliative care and the following factors such as age, prior palliative care education, and previous experience in providing palliative care. Conclusion: The findings highlight the importance of developing a comprehensive and effective palliative care education program to enhance nursing students’ knowledge and foster positive attitudes, thereby improving the quality of palliative care services for patients and their families