Objectives:
Neonatal jaundice (NNJ) is a common newborn disorder globally which is preventable and easily treatable. However, when detected late and/or poorly
managed, it is a leading cause of hospitalization, neurological complications and death in newborns. Since mother’s knowledge of newborn jaundice
is crucial to prompt recognition, intervention and prevention of morbidity and mortality associated with this condition, we sought to determine the
knowledge, perception and care seeking behaviours of NNJ among mothers/caregivers.
Methods:
This mixed method study enrolled four hundred and twenty one respondents attending infant welfare clinic in a community health centre in Nenwe town
in Enugu state using pretested semi-structured questionnaire. Determinants of knowledge and health seeking behaviour of respondents for newborn
jaundice were determined using chi-square and fisher’s exact test where appropriate.
Results:
Majority of the respondents had poor knowledge and incorrect perception of the causes and management of NNJ. Use of glucose water and instillation of
breast milk into the eye of the newborn were some of the harmful home practices used by respondents in management of newborn jaundice. Educational attainment, experience in newborn care and type of occupation significantly determined knowledge, correct description of NNJ and seeking for care in a hospital among respondents.
Conclusion:
There is poor knowledge and perception of NNJ among respondents. Targeted education during antenatal and infant welfare clinics by health professionals is needed to help mothers and care giver recognise NNJ, refrain from potentially harmful home interventions and promptly seek healthcare.
Author(s): Ekwochi Uchenna, Osuorah DI Chidiebere, Ndu K Ikenna, Amadi F Ogechukwu, Okeke B Ifeyinwa, Obuoha Ejike,
Shatima Dennis, and Eneh Chizoba