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Article Type

Original Study

Abstract

Objectives The aim of this study was to  evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and practice of the mothers toward neonatal jaundice (NNJ). Background NNJ is a significant cause of neonatal morbidity worldwide and accounts for 75% of hospital readmissions in the first week of life. Severe NNJ can lead to irreversible brain damage or even death in otherwise healthy newborns. Because of early discharge of mothers from the hospitals, the responsibility of mothers in recognizing jaundice has increased. Mothers therefore play a vital role in the early identification and prevention of complication. Materials and methods This cross-sectional study was carried out on 265 mothers who attended Kafr El-batanoon primary health care for antenatal care or for their babies«SQ» vaccinations. The mothers were interviewed using a predesigned questionnaire to assess their knowledge, practice, and attitude toward NNJ. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 13. Results The results showed that only 18.9% of mothers had good knowledge about NNJ. Mother«SQ»s knowledge was significantly influenced by their level of education, age, parity, and previous history. About 48.0% of participants had good attitude toward NNJ and its management. However, 95.8% of mothers expressed their willingness to seek medical advice if their babies develop NNJ; only 25.3% had a good practice and stated that they would seek medical attention within the first 24 h of jaundice, which was significantly influenced by their age, parity, occupation, and history. Conclusion Participants attending Kafr El-batanoon Unit had adequate idea about recognition of NNJ. However, their knowledge of causes, danger signs of complications, complications, and treatment were poor, with common misconceptions. Their attitude toward the management of NNJ was apparently positive, whereas practice was poor. Knowledge and practice of mothers were significantly influenced by their age, parity, and history of NNJ in previous babies. Therefore, it is recommended that healthcare providers should give more health education on NNJ to the mothers during antenatal care visits.

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