NURSES’ KNOWLEDGE AND PERSPECTIVE ABOUT PROMOTING PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AMONG CANCER PATIENTS IN A TERTIARY HEALTH INSTITUTION, EDO STATE.

ABSTRACT

This study assessed the knowledge, perspectives, and challenges faced by nurses in promoting physical activity among cancer patients at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital. With the increasing importance of physical activity in oncology care, the research aimed to identify gaps in nurses' understanding and attitudes toward exercise recommendations. A descriptive crosssectional survey was conducted using a stratified sampling technique to select 257 participants. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 24.Findings revealed significant knowledge gaps, with only 21.8% accurately identifying the benefits of physical activity for cancer patients. While 70% acknowledged its importance, 81.7% reported challenges, including insufficient institutional support and lack of training. Despite generally positive attitudes toward exercise promotion, many nurses expressed concerns about patients’ physical limitations, which hindered their ability to recommend physical activity effectively. The study highlights the need to improve nurses' knowledge and confidence in promoting physical activity, as these factors are essential for effective patient advocacy. Addressing these barriers is crucial for enhancing nursing practice and improving oncology patient outcomes. Healthcare institutions should implement targeted educational programs to strengthen nurses' understanding of physical activity guidelines. Additionally, increasing institutional support and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration can create a more supportive environment for integrating physical activity into cancer care. Further research is recommended to evaluate the long-term impact of educational interventions on nursing practices and patient well-being. Keywords: Nurses, Physical Activity, Cancer Patients, Knowledge, Perspectives, Challenges, Oncology Care,