Predictors of knowledge and practice of newborn care among post-natal mothers attending immunisation clinics in Southeast Nigeria

Abstract

Objectives: Evidence-based newborn care practice recommended by WHO reduces neonatal mortality and improves neonatal outcomes. This study assessed the knowledge, practice-associated factors and predictors of essential newborn care among post-natal mothers in two primary health care centres in Southeast Nigeria.MethodsDesign: A cross-sectional total population studySetting: Two primary health care centres in two local government areas in Southeast Nigeria.Participants: Post-natal mothers who attended immunisation clinicsData collection: Quantitative data was collected over four weeks from 400 post-natal mothers. Chi-square test and logistic regression were carried out for associations and predictors, respectively. Analytical decisions were taken at p<0.05 and 95% confidence interval.Outcome measures: Knowledge, attitude, the practice of essential newborn care; predictors of practiceFindings: Mean age of participants was 28.68±5.4. The majority (78.9%) had been counselled on newborn care and 85.2% delivered in a formal health facility. The majority (77%) had good knowledge of essential newborn care and practices (61%). More than half (62.3%) reported support from health workers. Predictors of good practice were older age (AOR: 0.435; 95%CI: 0.212-0.893), being married (AOR: 8.095; 95%CI: 3.732-17.558), living in the urban area (AOR: 0.478; 0.291-0.784), and having good knowledge of newborn care (AOR: 0.239; CI: 0.139-0.411).Conclusions: Good practice was identified in the majority. Being married, older, living in urban areas and having good knowledge were predictors of good practice. Health facility delivery, continuous support by health workers and post-natal education to mothers in rural areas are recommended policy priorities.

Family Nursing Care during the Transition to Parenthood: A Scoping Review

“…Hence, the importance of warranting central attention to this concept in pre- and postnatal care is underscored. These findings align with the notion that it is crucial to consider various factors, such as individuals’ and families’ characteristics, and contextual elements when providing care during the transition to parenthood [ 27 , 28 , 31 , 32 , 33 , 34 ]. As an example, the research conducted by Nomaguchi and Milkie [ 27 ] showed that parenting challenges and well-being are influenced by social, cultural, economic, and institutional factors.…”

“…Furthermore, working mothers and fathers with young children tend to experience less parenting stress compared to those who are not employed; however, this positive effect is influenced by the specific characteristics of one’s job [ 27 ]. Agu and colleagues’ study [ 31 ] identified being multiparous as a determinant factor for good practices. Moreover, their findings indicated that being married, older in age, residing in urban regions, and possessing a strong understanding of newborn care were additional predictors of positive practices.…”

“…However, it may involve conditions that hinder the transition, such as inappropriate counseling and insufficient information [ 28 ]. As an example, traditional customs and teachings like the “Omugwo” practice, where mothers visit their daughters shortly after childbirth to provide care for both the baby and the mother, have been associated with limited knowledge among postnatal mothers regarding crucial aspects of newborn care, particularly breastfeeding [ 31 ]. This underscores that family support may or may not play a role in facilitating the transition.…”

“…Nurses, being the healthcare professionals closest to the general population, play a crucial role in health promotion and disease prevention, especially within vulnerable populations [ 28 ]. Community-based primary healthcare has the potential to enhance neonatal health and reduce mortality in rural and economically disadvantaged regions [ 31 , 38 ]. This context of care provides an excellent opportunity to encourage positive parenting behaviors [ 1 ], promoting a cognitively enriched home environment and sensitive parenting, as well as reducing developmental disparities linked to income [ 33 ].…”

“…; Madumere, O.D; Keke, C.O. (2022) [ 31 ] Nigeria. Predictors of knowledge and practice of newborn care among post-natal mothers attending immunization clinics in Southeast Nigeria To assess the knowledge, practice-associated factors, and predictors of essential newborn care among post-natal mothers.…”