Knowledge of Florida nurses and dietitians regarding dietary supplements.

Background: Health care professionals should exhibit competency about dietary supplements to support the high number of Americans taking these products.

Objectives: To evaluate the knowledge of Florida nurses and dietitians regarding dietary supplements.

Methods: Florida nurses (n=600) and dietitians (n=600) were randomly selected to participate in a self-reported online survey. The actual knowledge of these professionals regarding nutrient-based and herbal supplements was evaluated by a quiz.

Results: Data of 89 dietitians and 64 nurses were analyzed using independent sample t-test and Pearson's correlation. The actual knowledge of both professionals revealed a mean correct score of 12.98+/-6.16 (maximum score=30). Dietitians had a significantly greater knowledge of dietary supplements when compared to nurses (P=0.000). Both professionals were more knowledgeable on nutrient-based supplements than herbal.

Conclusions: Both groups had a fairly low knowledge of side effects of dietary supplements and their interactions with common medications, and seem to require additional education in this area. Focused training can be designed to improve professionals' knowledge about dietary supplements.