KNOWLEDGE OF MOTHERS REGARDING TRADITIONAL METHODS OF NEONATAL JAUNDICE TREATMENT

Emad M. Thaker Al-Hadeethi; Areej Muthanna Noaman; Ahmed Salah Rajab; Mohammed Adress Younis

doi:10.46903/gjms/23.1.1786

KNOWLEDGE OF MOTHERS REGARDING TRADITIONAL METHODS OF NEONATAL JAUNDICE TREATMENT

Emad M. Thaker Al-Hadeethi, Areej Muthanna Noaman, Ahmed Salah Rajab, Mohammed Adress Younis

Abstract

Background: Neonatal jaundice (NNJ) is a common condition globally, posing serious risks like neurological damage, physical impairments, and even mortality if untreated. Maternal knowledge and timely intervention play a crucial role in improving outcomes. This study aimed to assess the awareness level of mothers regarding NNJ and the initial treatments they administer to affected newborns before seeking formal healthcare.

Materials & Methods: This study was conducted as a cross-sectional, descriptive study at Salah Al-Din General Hospital in Tikrit, Iraq, during the period from September 1st, 2023 to June 15th, 2024, it included 283 mothers who had recently delivered a live newborn. Participants were selected randomly, and data was collected through direct interviews using a structured questionnaire. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS ver23 software and descriptive statistical tests, including the frequency and percentage scores of the different domains of the questionnaire.

Results: The results revealed that a significant proportion of mothers relied on family or traditional beliefs as primary sources of information regarding NNJ, with only 21% of the study group actively seeking medical assistance, while the majority (78.4%) preferred traditional remedies. Mothers with higher education levels and employment status demonstrated a better understanding of NNJ and its risks.

Conclusion: These findings reveal significant gaps in maternal understanding of NNJ, shaped by cultural beliefs. Targeted prenatal education is essential to correct misconceptions, enhance awareness of NNJ symptoms, and promote safer treatment practices, enabling mothers to recognize jaundice early and seek timely medical care.

Keywords

Neonatal jaundice; Cultural beliefs; Healthcare.

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.46903/gjms/23.1.1786