ABSTRACT
Background: There has been a dramatic increase in the incidence of skin cancer; over 1 million new cases are diagnosed annually. Approximately one person dies from skin cancer per hour in this country. Nurses are in an excellent position to perform screenings for cancer, and skin cancer screenings should be taught in the nursing curriculum. The use of simulation increases knowledge and efficacy.
Methods: A cross-sectional study examining the use of moulages and simulation as an educational intervention on the knowledge of skin cancer, sun protective behaviors, and role of the nurse in skin cancer prevention in second-year nursing students enrolled in a baccalaureate nursing program.
Results: Students did not differ on baseline knowledge. However, the intervention group showed significant increased knowledge in all outcomes.
Conclusions: Increasing understanding of skin cancer with the use of moulages and simulation enhanced education and expertise in recognizing skin cancers.