Abstract: Essential new-born care practices are practices that protect against new-born morbidity and mortality which include clean / hygiene cord care, thermal care (immediate drying of the baby, wrapping with clean dry cloth and delayed bathing) and early initiation of breastfeeding. The purpose of this study was to assess the patterns and cultural factors influencing essential new-born care practices among women of reproductive age at homes in Taveta Sub-County of Taita-Taveta County. Objectives: The objective of the study was to assess the patterns and cultural factors influencing essential new-born care practices among women of reproductive age at homes in Taveta Sub-County of Taita-Taveta County. Methods: The study adopted descriptive cross-sectional design and the sampling method adopted was cluster sampling to come up with 384 mothers. Both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods were used to collect data. The instruments used in this study included structured questionnaires with closed ended questions for quantitative data as well as Key Informant Interview Guide and Focus Group Discussion guide. Quantitative data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS) while qualitative data was analyzed thematically. Chi-squared tests and regression analysis was used to establish relationship between variables at p ≤0.05. Results: Poor neonatal care practices were observed in 84.2% of the mothers. Cultural factors significantly influenced new born care practices in the study area (p<0.05). Conclusions: The study concludes that there are poor neonatal care practices in the study area and that cultural factors greatly determine such practices.
Abstract: Essential new-born care practices are practices that protect against new-born morbidity and mortality which include clean / hygiene cord care, thermal care (immediate drying of the baby, wrapping with clean dry cloth and delayed bathing) and early initiation of breastfeeding. The purpose of this study was to assess the patterns and cultural factors...Show More
