Health Seeking Behaviour and Knowledge on Neonatal Danger Signs Among Neonatal Caregivers in Upper Denkyira East Municipality, Ghana

Abstract

Background: The purpose of the project was to assess the health seeking behaviour and knowledge on neonatal danger signs among lactating mothers in the Upper Denkyira East Municipality. Methods: The study used quantitative and employed a descriptive cross sectional survey to recruit mothers and neonatal care takers visiting postnatal clinic. The target population was mothers and neonatal care takers above 18 years visiting the facility and were willing to be part of the study. Total population for the study was 387 however, 381 responded to the questionnaire. Structured questionnaire was the main data collection tool for the study. Data were analysed with SPSS version 23.0. Logistic regression with Pearson Chi square, p-value and odd ratio were the main statistical methods for the data analysis. Results: The results showed that almost half of the respondents 138 (36.2%) stated that diarrhoea and vomiting constituted the major danger signs that sent their neonates to the hospital. Also the health seeking behaviour of the mothers showed positive results as most of the mothers (77.2%) attended hospital on their own volition. Finally, the association between mothers’ socio-demographic characteristics and recognition of neonatal danger signs showed that mothers educational level and occupation were statistically significant (p-value=0.000). Conclusion: The study concluded that mothers’ knowledge on neonatal danger signs was high and good health seeking behaviour. It is recommended that community health nurses and midwives should embark on home visits to encourage mothers to practice the knowledge and skills acquired during counselling at the hospital.