Investigation of nursing students' knowledge levels and attitudes in incontinence-associated dermatitis management through game-based learning: a mixed methods study.

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to assess nursing students' knowledge levels and attitudes towards the etiology, risk factors, and preventive measures of incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD) using an escape room game.

Design: A mixed-method study.

Subjects and setting: The sample size of the study was 32 students.

Methods: Quantitative data obtained with the Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Nurses in Managing Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis Questionnaire (KAP-IAD-Q) and qualitative data obtained through FGDs following the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) checklist were analyzed using a thematic approach.

Results: The average age of the participants was 22.63 ± 0.90, 87.5% of them were female (n=28), and 50% were third (n=16) and fourth-year students (n=16). KAP-IAD-Q total posttest score (88.06+7.00) was found to be high. Data obtained from the FGDs were categorized under 3 main themes: main focus areas during participation in the IAD-themed escape room game; advantages and disadvantages of teamwork in IAD management; and the game's contribution to a better understanding and classification of IAD.

Conclusions: The use of the escape room game facilitated high, fast, and efficient learning of IAD knowledge and attitudes. It revealed challenges in collaborative decision-making, accurate diagnosis, distinguishing from other wounds, and attitude development in the management of IAD.