Mothers’ Knowledge Regarding Home Care Management of Neonatal Jaundice in Qaladze - Sulaymaniyah City

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Jaundice is the most common condition requiring medical attention in newborn babies. The mother has a significant role in reducing the effects. Early discharge of mothers and neonates from the hospitals increased the responsibility of mothers in recognizing jaundice has increased. This study aimed to assess the level of the mothers’ knowledge regarding home care management of neonatal jaundice. Methods: A quantitative, cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Shahidan Qaladze Teaching Hospital from the period of January 2021 to March 2022. Purposive (non-probability) sampling techniques were used to recruit participants. The study sample included 114 mothers. Data was collected using a questionnaire prepared by the investigator, and direct interviews were conducted. Descriptive statistics including, frequencies and percentages, and inferential statistical analysis of Chi-square was used to analyze the data. Results: The results show that 34.2% of the mothers were between 26-32 years. Concerning occupation, more than three-quarters (86%) of the sample were housewives. The study demonstrated that the majority (64.9%) of mothers did not have enough in-formation about jaundice. There was a statistically significant association between parents’ relatives and the source of information regarding the mother’s knowledge. The study showed a statistically significant association between mothers’ knowledge and early initiation of breastfeeding. Factors associated with mother’s knowledge include the mother’s age, occupation, years of formal education, residency areas, received health education on neonate jaundice, and the source of information. Conclusion and Recommendations: The study concluded that most mothers had a deficit of knowledge regarding home care management of neonatal jaundice. It is recommended to provide mothers with comprehensive health education about neonatal jaundice care to improve their knowledge and practice in caring for neonates with jaundice.