Study to Assess the Knowledge on Essential Newborn Care among Primipara Mothers-A Case of Government District Hospital, Tumkur, Karnataka, India

Background: Nearly 50% of all newborn deaths occur during the neonatal period. Half of this death occurs in the first seven days due to pre-maturity, neonatal tetanus, birth asphyxia and infections, which can be prevented by proper and timely care of the new born. The present study was designed to assess the knowledge on essential newborn care among primipara mothers at District Hospital, Tumkur, Karnataka, India.

Methodology: The data were collected on knowledge of primipara mothers of new born baby's. It is believed that mothers were the first nurse who take care and met the primary needs of the new born babies during wellness and illness. Sample size was 100 primipara mothers. Simple random sampling technique was used to draw the sample. The data collection was done by interview method, using structured knowledge questionnaire which includes 40 questions of knowledge regarding essential new born care with scoring pattern of one for each correct answer and zero for incorrect response.

Results: The results of the study were indicating about 25% of mothers had good knowledge, 64% mothers had moderate knowledge and 11% of mothers had poor knowledge related to essential new born care.

Conclusions: Further research warranted for improving the level of knowledge among primipara mothers related to essential newborn care.