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Abstract
Background: Inherited genetic disorders represent a significant public health concern in Pakistan due to consanguineous marriages, limited genetic awareness, and inadequate screening services. Nursing students require sufficient knowledge and positive attitudes to support genetic healthcare and preventive practices.
Objective: To assess knowledge and attitudes regarding inherited genetic disorders among undergraduate nursing students at Superior University, Lahore, Pakistan.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was designed involving 218 undergraduate nursing students selected through simple random sampling. Data were to be collected using a structured questionnaire assessing demographic characteristics, genetic knowledge, and attitudes. Statistical analysis was planned using SPSS version 27, including descriptive statistics and chi-square tests, with significance set at p < .05.
Results: Results showed moderate knowledge among 47.2% of students, good knowledge among 30.3%, and poor knowledge among 22.5%. Positive attitudes were demonstrated by 50.5%, neutral attitudes by 29.8%, and negative attitudes by 19.7%. Simulated associations suggested relationships between genetic knowledge and academic year, previous genetics education, clinical exposure, and awareness-program participation.
Conclusion: The illustrative findings highlight potential gaps in genetic knowledge despite generally favorable attitudes. Strengthening genetics education, clinical training, and awareness programs may improve nursing students' preparedness for hereditary disease prevention and patient education.