Assessment of Knowledge and Perception of Telenursing Among Nursing Students in Islamabad, Pakistan

Abstract

Background: Rapid expansion of digital healthcare has increased the importance of telenursing as a strategy for improving access, continuity, and efficiency of care, particularly in settings with workforce and geographic barriers. The preparedness of nursing students is critical for successful future integration of telenursing into education and practice. Objective: To assess the knowledge and perception of telenursing among undergraduate nursing students in Islamabad, Pakistan, and to examine the relationship between knowledge and perception. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 186 third- and fourth-year BS Nursing students from four nursing colleges in Islamabad. Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire comprising demographic items, 10 knowledge items, and 10 perception items. Knowledge scores ranged from 0 to 10, while perception scores ranged from 10 to 50. Descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation analysis were applied. Results: Most students demonstrated good knowledge of telenursing (87.1%), with a mean knowledge score of 8.50 ± 1.62. Positive perception was observed in 76.9% of participants, with a mean perception score of 38.50 ± 5.36. Strong support was found for integrating telenursing into undergraduate education and healthcare services in Pakistan, although concerns remained regarding technical feasibility, infrastructure, and reduced direct nurse-patient contact. Knowledge and perception showed a weak but statistically significant positive correlation (r=0.22, p=0.002). Conclusion: Nursing students showed high knowledge and generally favorable perceptions toward telenursing, indicating substantial conceptual readiness. However, effective implementation will require structured education, practical exposure, and infrastructural support to translate positive attitudes into competent clinical practice.