A comparative study of the knowledge, attitudes and perceptions of post graduate homoeopathy and post basic nursing students with regard to the adverse effects of vaccination in children

Abstract

Aim of the study The study aimed to identify the knowledge, attitudes and perceptions amongst post graduate homoeopathy students and post basic primary health care nurses serving in a primary health care setting regarding adverse effects associated with childhood vaccinations.

Methodology In this qualitative study 18 participants were selected through purposive sampling. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with each participant. The interviews were recorded and analysed conceptually.

Results The findings of this study revealed that all of the PHC nursing participants were in favour of the childhood immunisation schedule of South Africa, contrary to the homoeopathic participants where the majority of participants were not in favour of the childhood immunisation schedule. Knowledge, attitudes and perceptions varied amongst the homoeopathic participants in contrast to the PHC nursing participants where there was a much more unified stance and cohesive outcome with regard to their attitudes and perceptions.