The Uniqueness of Newborn Health Care in The Batak Toba Community

Abstract

This study aims to delve deeper into the uniqueness of newborn care applied by the Batak Toba Community. This research was conducted with a qualitative design using a phenomenological approach, data collection was done by in-depth interviews and observations to 8 informants in Tanjung Bunga Village, Pangururan District, Samosir Regency. The results showed the perspective of the Batak Toba Society regarding the care of newborns from maternal delivery assistance facility, umbilical cord care, children's nutritional needs, child hygiene, martataring/marsilusilu and eating with family as thanksgiving and showing joy because a child had been born inside family. Traditional practices are carried out in accordance with religion, values and beliefs adopted by the Batak Toba family. Traditionally, the practice of welcoming newborns beneficial to the health of children, especially newborns. However, medically, the traditional practices given will have a positive or negative impact on newborns, so health workers are expected to provide assistance and socialization regarding the tradition of welcoming newborns to suit the needs and health of newborns.