Knowledge, attitude and practice regarding umbilical cord care among post - natal mothers in Naguru hospital, Kampala.

Abstract

This study was carried out to determine the level of knowledge, attitude and practice of cord care among postnatal mothers in China-Uganda Friendship Hospital Naguru, Kampala- Uganda. The study was conducted with the aid of structured interviews assisted questionnaires to obtain information on demographic characteristics such as sex, ethnic group/ tribe, religion, educational background, marital status, occupation and level of income. Findings were compiled, analyzed, and interpreted. The study indicated that 74% of mothers interviewed were educated up to basic level, i.e. above primary school while 26 percent of mothers had only accessed primary school. Approximately 55% of respondents confirmed that they had knowledge on umbilical cord care. 92% confirmed to have received sensitization on cord care. Of these only 33% of the respondents had received cord care information from Antenatal classes, the big majority from friends and relatives. 90% of the respondents applied a wide range of substances on the cord believed to aid in quick healing and closing of the umbilical stump, and prevention of infections. In conclusion, the use of non-beneficial cord care practices which are highly prevalent in Kampala should be discouraged through health education of the population using the mass media and health talks in health facilities. Pregnant women should be taught beneficial cord care practices as well as the effects of use of harmful substances in cord care at the antenatal clinics. Newly delivered mothers should be given practical sessions on beneficial cord care methods before discharge from health facilities and measures should be put in place to ensure that mothers deliver in health facilities. In regard to these findings more sensitization on proper cord care practices has been recommended to all mothers attending antenatal clinics, and all postnatal mothers especially prime gravidas should have practical sessions.