Document Type : Original Quantitative and Qualitative Research Paper
Authors
1
Department of Nursing, School of Behavior Sciences, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
2
1Department of Nursing, School of Behavior Sciences, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran. 2Social Determinants of Health Research Centerو University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
3
1Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran. 2Health in Emergency and Disaster Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
10.22038/ebcj.2026.92542.3212
Abstract
Background: Electronic health literacy , defined as the ability to seek, evaluate, and apply digital health information, is essential for improving care quality. Nurses, as frontline healthcare providers, require strong eHealth literacy skills.
Aim: This study aimed to evaluate eHealth literacy and its demographic and occupational determinants among nurses.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2024 to February 2025. Using stratified random sampling, 334 nurses were selected from public hospitals affiliated with medical universities in Tehran, Iran. Data were collected via a demographic and occupational form and Norman and Skinner’s validated eHealth Literacy Scale (eHEALS). Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, Spearman’s correlation, Kruskal–Wallis, Mann–Whitney tests, and multiple linear regression using SPSS version 24, with significance set at p < 0.05.
Results: The mean eHealth literacy score was 26.08 ± 6.1 (out of 40), indicating a moderate level. Only 10.5% of nurses showed high literacy. eHealth literacy was significantly associated with age, education, work experience, marital status, and work shift (p < 0.05). Higher literacy was found among younger nurses, those with higher education, and morning-shift workers, while lower scores were seen among older, married, and rotating-shift nurses.
Implications for Practice: The moderate eHealth literacy level was significantly associated with younger age, higher education, morning shifts, and single status, emphasizing the importance of demographic and occupational determinants. Given the cross-sectional nature of the study, these associations do not imply causation. Targeted training for older and rotating-shift nurses, combined with strategies to bolster digital infrastructure, is recommended.
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