Mothers' perception of neonatal jaundice in Jazan Region, KSA

Abstract

Background: Jaundice is a yellow discoloration of the skin and sclera resulted from an increased level of bilirubin in the blood. Neonatal morbidity from neonatal jaundice has a huge impact and burden on family and health resources. The majority of cases are resolved with no intervention while some need some assessment and intervention either follow-up or management. Inadequate awareness and understanding of this common neonatal problem by the family can play a role in delays and complications. Aim: The aim of this study is to assess mothers' perception toward neonatal jaundice in Jazan region in Saudi Arabia. Subjects and Methods: Cross-sectional study that was performed through online survey and completed by mothers during the period from July to August 2018. Results: There were 60.4% of mothers had poor knowledge, whereas 39.6% had good knowledge, the most common source of knowledge was physicians (83.8%). Several factors affected the level of mother's knowledge, including age (P = 0.01), education level (P = 0.001), parity (P = 0.002), or history of their infants developed neonatal jaundice (P = 0.009). Conclusion: Mothers who participated in the study showed inadequate and misconception knowledge toward neonatal jaundice, which must be considered to reduce the consequences of this common condition. We advocate for improved maternal knowledge during antenatal follow-up and well-baby clinic visits.