The Factors Affecting Risk Perception for Particulate Matter in Nursing College Students

Abstract

This study is a descriptive research study to establish the influence of knowledge and attitudes for particulate matter on the perception of particulate matter risk among nursing students in Chungbuk.The subjects of this study were 230 nursing students enrolled in J University and M University in Chungbuk, and those who understood the purpose of this study and agreed to participate. Data were analyzed by frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviations, t-test, and multiple regression analysis.This study found that particulate matter cognition score was the highest, and the scores were the lowest among nursing college students. A significant positive correlation existed between knowledge and particulate matter risk perception (r=.30, p<.001), also attitude and fine particulate matter perception (r=.35, p<.001). According to the multiple regression analysis, the attitude 12.7%(?=.29, p<.001) and knowledge 4.3%(?=.217, p=.001) affected particulate matter risk perception. Knowledge and attitudes for particulate matter have been identified as factors affecting risk perceptions of particulate matter. To increase the knowledge and attitude for particulate matter among nursing students and help managing the health of the community and patients from particulate matter which seriously emerges, the researchers have produced reliable educational materials onparticulate matter and included them in the curriculum to cultivate and maintain the correct attitude towardparticulate matter.