Knowledge, attitude and practice of mothers in infantile skin care

Abstract

Background: Skin of the newborn is susceptible and sensitive to trauma and infection and requires special care. Though mothers are aware of the infants’ skin care, just studying the knowledge and attitude is not enough without studying the practice. The objective of this study was to determine the knowledge, attitude and practices of mothers regarding the infantile skin care.Methods: A cross sectional study conducted at a tertiary care centre in Bangalore. In a period of 6 months, post-natal mothers with infants attending well baby clinics were interviewed through a semi structure performa.Results: Among 400 mothers interviewed mean age was 25.44 years, 37.67% belonging to urban and 62.33% to rural area. 96.7% were educated. Only 36.33% practiced correct hand washing practice before handling. 52.4% reported 1st bath to babies on day 3 of life, 64.4% reported 5-10 minutes bathing, and 78.6% reported daily bathing. 78.30% unaware that perfumed soaps cause skin irritation. 84.60% practiced daily oil massage and 86.40% used coconut oil. Reasons stated were better development (59.30%), soft skin (24.70%). 76.2% used talcum powder to absorb moisture. 88% believes Kajal use is safe and most use to ward off evil eyes. 57% used diapers while going outside, 65% changed < 3 per day, 62 % used cloth to wipe the area, 45% used talcum powder while changing diaper.Conclusion: This study helps us to identify knowledge gaps, cultural beliefs and behavioral pattern of mothers in infantile skin care. It also measures effectiveness of health education in changing health behavior.