Papanicolaou test: realization and knowledge of nursing academics

Abstract

Background and Objectives: The nurse plays a fundamental role in the accomplishment of the Papanicolau, as well as its health behavior in the face of the examination and other prevention practices. Thus, this study aimed to identify the achievement index and knowledge about the Papanicolau among nursing students. Methods: This is a descriptive, cross-sectional and quantitative study conducted between March 2016 and March 2017 in a private college in São Paulo, together with 28 nursing students, over 18 years old, duly enrolled and in regular classroom activity. The data collection took place in the college itself, according to the availability of academic hours, through the application of a structured and pre-tested questionnaire. The analysis of the data occurred by descriptive statistics. The data were analyzed by the Statistical Package for Social Sciences, applying Fisher's exact test. Results: The study participants were aware of the test, its importance and the need for it. It was observed that 78.6% did not know the periodicity of the test according to the recommendation of the Ministry of Health, 42.9% were unaware of the need or importance of pregnant women in the procedure and 80.8% of the participants who reported never having performed, did not attribute specific reason. Conclusion: the low index of achievement and the punctual knowledge of the Papanicolau reveals a negligence of the participants or little access to this information. This scenario may be similar in their home environments and end up reflecting later on in their professional practices. Keywords: Womens’s Health. Knowledge. Students, Nursing. Papanicolaou Test.