A study of knowledge and attitudes towards contraception among health care staff in Kelantan (Malaysia).

711 government health clinic nursing staff in Kelantan state were surveyed about their knowledge attitudes and use of various contraceptive methods. 11 sisters 122 staff nurses 173 assistant nurses and 334 midwives returned the questionnaire the same day of receipt. Most respondents were older than age 30 years married multiparous and working for more than 5 years. 80-90% practiced contraception with the majority of midwives preferring oral pills and the majority of staff nurses preferring condoms. 30-40% from each subgroup of respondents believed folk methods of contraception are effective and worthy of being encouraged. Approximately 50% 33% and 33% of staff nurses assistant nurses and midwives respectively were well informed on all contraceptive methods. A high proportion of staff felt that the nursing curriculum fails to adequately address the subject. The authors stress that in order to realize success in the family planning program more information must first be imparted to these health personnel. To that end more lectures could be provided during training followed by frequent and thorough refresher courses for all nursing staff.