Iran Journal of Nursing

  Background & Aims: Regarding the prevalence of osteoporosis followed by Nephrotic syndrome in children, educational programs to prevent this disorder is required. The present study aims to compare the effect of osteoporosis prevention education by peers and health personnel on osteoporosis self-efficacy of adolescents with Nephrotic syndrome.

  Material & Methods: In this quasi- experimental study , 54 patients (mean age 14.81 ± 2.47 ) with Nephrotic syndrome, referred to the clinics affiliated to Shiraz University of Medical Sciences have participated . The subjects were randomly assigned into two groups either educated by peers or by health personnel . The osteoporosis educational program was conducted weekly based on the health belief model. Data was collected by Osteoporosis self-efficacy scale (OSES) immediately and 1 month after the educational intervention. Data was analyzed by SPSS-PC (v. 15) using independent and paired t - test and RMANOVA .

  Results: The mean score of self-efficacy was increased significantly in both groups immediately after education (p=0/001) . The scores declined in both groups one month after intervention. Reduction of total score in the peer group (p =0.13) and in health personnel group (P =0.46) was not statistically significant . Generally , no significant difference was found between those educated by peers or by health personals before, immediately and 1 month after education. It means that Peer education and health personnel education are equally effective .

 Conclusion: According to the findings, osteoporosis education program based on health belief model is effective either by peer group or by health personnel and has a significant effect on self-efficacy of adolescents with nephritic syndrome. Regarding the findings, continuation of this program would keep the required changes.

  Received: 16 May 2013

  Accepted: 10 Aug 2013