Child Abuse and the Nursing Role: A Forensic Perspective Based on a Questionnaire-based Survey Among Nursing Students in a Tertiary Care Centre, Kelambakkam, Chennai.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48165/jfmt.2026.43.02.14Abstract
Background: Child abuse is a significant public health concern worldwide, with nurses playing a critical role in early identification, documentation, and reporting. Assessing the preparedness of nursing students is essential for strengthening child protection practices in healthcare settings. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of nursing students regarding child abuse, including awareness of clinical signs, legal provisions under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, and self-reported practices in handling suspected cases. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 150 B.Sc. Nursing students at Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Chennai, over three months. Data were collected using a structured, validated questionnaire comprising sections on demographics, knowledge, attitude, and practice. Participants were selected through simple random sampling. Ethical approval and informed consent were obtained. Results: The mean age of participants was 20.6 ± 1.07 years, with 54.7% male and 45.3% female. Regarding knowledge, 38% demonstrated good knowledge, 44% moderate, and 18% poor. Students with prior formal training had significantly higher knowledge scores (p < 0.05). Attitudes were largely positive, with 87% agreeing that child abuse training should be mandatory. However, practical readiness was limited—only 10% had suspected a case during clinical postings, and 12% had documented findings. Awareness of institutional referral pathways was reported by 53%, though 42% expressed uncertainty about implementation. Conclusion: Nursing students possess moderate knowledge and positive attitudes toward child abuse but demonstrate limited practical readiness. Integrating simulation-based learning, forensic nursing modules, and interdisciplinary workshops into curricula can enhance their competency as frontline responders in child protection.
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References
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