A Study to Assess the Knowledge of Mothers Regarding Care of Premature Infants in Selected Hospitals at Kerala

Background and Purpose: Today more than before ever there is abundance of written material concerning the low birth weight infant. Approximately 40% of all deaths occur at the age of five years with the highest morality occurring in the first seven days of life. All health professionals should understand the importance of providing expert care to low birth weight infant. The investigator takes steps to assess the knowledge of mothers in care of premature infants in selected hospitals at Thrissur, Kerala.

Objective: To assess the knowledge of mothers regarding developmental care for very low weight preterm infants and to prepare an information booklet regarding care of preterm infants based on findings.

Design: A descriptive survey design was used

Subjects: In this study sample consisted of 50 mothers of preterm infants admitted at Maternity Hospital, Thrissur, Kerala.

Methods: Purposive sampling technique was adopted.

Result: The findings of the study showed participants had knowledge on basic concept on premature infant (47%), maintenance of temperature (49%), maintenance of nutrition (43%), hygienic care of premature infants (73%), prevention of infection (66%), and follow up care (47%).

Conclusion: The overall knowledge level of mothers regarding care of premature infants found to be 60%. There was significant association between age at marriage, religion, education, income, type of family, and there is no association between number of children of mothers and their knowledge levels.