Using the Health Belief Model to Examine Adherence to Preventive Measures Among Nursing Students During COVID-19: A Cross-Sectional Analysis.

ABSTRACT

ABSTRACT Associations between health belief model constructs and engagement in COVID-19 preventive practices were examined in a population of 234 nursing students. Most (93 percent/68 percent, respectively) reported occasionally/frequently performing 6-feet physical distancing and wearing face masks/covering in public. Among health belief model constructs, perceived benefits were significantly associated with practicing physical distancing; perceived barriers were associated with lower likelihood. Perceived self-efficacy was associated with a greater likelihood of wearing face masks/covering in public. Nursing students should be provided timely and relevant information on preventive measures based on the recognition of different risk appraisals among students.