A study to assess knowledge, practice and problems of baby health care among postnatal mothers in one of primary health care setting

Abstract EN

Objective: in many cases there is a lack of knowledge of what is needed for optimal newborn care.

This study was undertaken to assess knowledge, practice and problems of postnatal mothers relating to different aspects of baby health care and breastfeeding among group of mothers attending primary health care center in one locality in Baghdad city. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Al-Noor primary health care center (PHCC) during the period from May-August 2006, a sample of 148 mothers were selected randomly (49 primi para and 99 multi para) using a well-structured questionnaire form, information related to different aspects of baby care were included in the form. Results: Although the majority of women in the sample had visited the primary health center for antenatal care, their sources of knowledge were from their relatives and friends.

A good percentage of them had bad practice regarding the care of umbilical stump and the eyes with 49% of primi para and 53.5% of multi para will use white light at home when their baby get jaundice.

When breastfeeding was discussed majority of women showed adequate knowledge and practice. Conclusions: There is an urgent need to assess the actual quality of postnatal care provided to women in the PHC center.

Also there is a need for an awareness- raising program highlighting the availability and the quality of current postnatal care.