Short Communication
Year: 2017 | Month: Aug | Volume: 7 | Issue: 8 | Pages: 382-385
Knowledge of the Staff Nurses about IYCF in Two Districts of Northern India
Dr. Sugandha Jauhari
Junior Resident; Department of Community Medicine and Public Health, King George’s Medical University, Shah Mina Road, Chowk, Uttar Pradesh , Lucknow
ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION: Breastfeeding promotion is a significant child survival strategy. Interventions to improve early and correct infant feeding practices can result in considerable reduction in neonatal morbidity and mortality. It is important for staff nurses to have adequate knowledge about breastfeeding and skills to counsel mother and family members. The objective of the present study was to assess the knowledge and counseling skills of the staff nurses, positioned at L1-L2 delivery points, with regard to IYCF.
MATERIAL AND METHODS: A Labor Room Assessment was conducted by Department of Community Medicine, K.G.M.U, Lucknow for strengthening of labor rooms of different levels in districts of Badaun and Saunbhadra. An IYCF checklist based on WHO and IMNCI guidelines was prepared and 22 staff nurses of level 2 delivery points (5 from 24*7 PHC and 14 from CHC of Badaun, 2 from 24*7 PHC and 1 from CHC of Saunbhadra) were interviewed about their knowledge and counseling skills regarding IYCF.
RESULTS: Only two-third (63.6%) had knowledge about initiation of breast feeding within 1hour. High knowledge was seen for benefits of colostrums where all the staff nurses (100%) knew that colostrums are rich in antibodies and vitamins. Regarding counseling skills, all the 22 nurses reminded mothers about the benefits of exclusive breast feeding for 6 months and dangers of artificial feeding and water.
Key words: Breast Feeding, IYCF, Staff Nurses, Knowledge