KAP study of mothers using knives, matches, etc. to protect their newborns

8^th International Conference on Medical Education and Health Sciences

October 08-09, 2018 Osaka, Japan

Samarth Sahai, Sashrika Saini and Monisha Sahai

Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, India

Scientific Tracks Abstracts: J Health Edu Res Dev

Abstract :

Study Design: Mothers of newborns were interviewed regarding common practices being carried out by them and their logic behind using knives, matches, etc. to protect their newborns. We discussed how they can protect their baby through early and exclusive breast feeding, immunization and proper care and protection from mosquitoes. This exercise also made the young mothers question every practice and understand logic behind it rather than blindly follow them and gave them confidence that they have a right to question and do away with illogical practices. This study was done to initiate a healthy discussion in the post natal wards by the undergraduate medical students posted in obstetrics and gynecology with the mothers who have delivered newborns in the last 72 hours. This discussion is a small step in awareness generation of ways to bring down the high neonatal mortality by tapping the most important link in the primary health care providing system i.e. the mother. The study was carried out in the post natal wards of the obstetrics department of two medical colleges in urban areas of Rajasthan, India. Results: The study showed that nearly 95% mothers were using old fashioned traditions like carrying a knife or a matchbox to protect their newborn.

Biography :

Samarth Sahai is currently a MBBS student at Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Jaipur, India.

E-mail: drsahaimonisha@gmail.com