A cross-sectional survey with three measurement points,
using convenience sample, was conducted. The sample
was composed of 287 PHNs of Pingtung County in
Taiwan. Questionnaires were sent to samples to be selfadministered.
A total of 258 nurses responded, yielding
a response rate of 90%.
PUBLIC HEALTH NURSES 111Permission to conduct the research was obtained from
the Bureau of Health in Pingtung County and from each
PHC. Each questionnaire was prefaced with a letter that
explained the objectives of the study and that assured
respondents of the anonymity and confidentiality of their
response. Participation in the study was voluntary.