Background of the Study
Proper infant hygiene practices play a crucial role in reducing neonatal infections, improving child survival rates, and promoting overall well-being. Hygiene practices such as proper handwashing, safe umbilical cord care, appropriate feeding hygiene, and clean diapering methods are essential in preventing infections that contribute to neonatal and infant mortality (World Health Organization [WHO], 2024).
Gombe State, located in northeastern Nigeria, has a high infant mortality rate, with many deaths attributed to preventable infections such as neonatal sepsis, diarrhea, and respiratory illnesses (National Population Commission [NPC], 2023). Studies suggest that a lack of maternal knowledge about proper infant hygiene contributes significantly to these health challenges. Many mothers, especially in rural areas, have limited awareness of best hygiene practices due to low literacy levels, inadequate access to healthcare information, and cultural beliefs that influence childcare behaviors.
Despite interventions by governmental and non-governmental organizations to promote maternal and infant health education, gaps in knowledge still exist among mothers in Gombe State. This study seeks to investigate the level of maternal knowledge regarding infant hygiene practices, identify gaps in awareness, and explore potential strategies for improving maternal education on hygiene practices.
Statement of the Problem
Neonatal and infant infections remain a major cause of child mortality in Gombe State, with poor hygiene practices contributing to the problem. Many mothers in rural areas lack adequate knowledge about essential hygiene practices such as proper breastfeeding hygiene, safe diapering methods, and the importance of handwashing before handling infants.
While previous studies have focused on general maternal and child health, limited research has specifically examined the level of maternal knowledge regarding infant hygiene practices in Gombe State. There is a need to assess how well mothers understand hygiene practices and determine whether existing health education programs are effectively addressing these knowledge gaps. Identifying these gaps will help policymakers and healthcare providers design more effective educational interventions to improve infant health outcomes.
Objectives of the Study
To assess the level of maternal knowledge regarding infant hygiene practices in Gombe State.
To examine the relationship between maternal knowledge and infant health outcomes.
To explore strategies for improving maternal education on infant hygiene practices.
Research Questions
What is the level of maternal knowledge about infant hygiene practices in Gombe State?
How does maternal knowledge of hygiene practices influence infant health outcomes?
What interventions can be implemented to improve maternal education on infant hygiene practices?
Research Hypotheses
Mothers with higher knowledge of infant hygiene practices have healthier infants with lower rates of infection.
Poor maternal knowledge of hygiene practices is associated with increased cases of neonatal infections.
Implementing targeted maternal hygiene education programs will improve infant health outcomes.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on mothers in Gombe State, particularly in rural and semi-urban communities, to assess their knowledge of infant hygiene practices. Limitations may include biases in self-reported hygiene behaviors and challenges in reaching mothers in remote areas.
Definitions of Terms
Infant hygiene practices: Practices that ensure cleanliness and prevent infections in newborns, including handwashing, proper umbilical cord care, and safe feeding practices.
Maternal knowledge: The level of awareness and understanding a mother has regarding hygiene and childcare practices.
Neonatal infections: Infections occurring in newborns, often caused by poor hygiene practices and exposure to contaminated environments.
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