Abstract

Background:Neonatal jaundice is a foremost cause of hospitalization in the first week of life worldwide. If not properlymanaged, it may result in significant bilirubin-induced morbidity and mortality.Aim:To evaluate the knowledge andpractice of expectant mothers towards neonatal jaundice (NNJ) in Aba, Nigeria.Materials and Methods:This was aquestionnaire based study involving 300 expectant mothers during antenatal visit. Data was entered into a computer anddescriptive analysis done using SPSS software version 17.Results:The respondents were aged 19 – 44 years, mean age,29.2 ± 4.6 years. Two hundred and eighty eight (96%) were aware of NNJ, and 150 (50%) had health workers as theirsource of information. Most, 249 (83%) knew one site of recognition of NNJ. Only 24 (8%) knew one danger sign while264 (88%) did not know any at all. Majority, 244 (81.3%) did not know any cause of NNJ. Only 30 (10%) knew appropriatetreatment modality while only 42 (14%) would appropriately take a baby with NNJ immediately to hospital.Conclusion: There is paucity of knowledge on causes and danger signs of NNJ amongst expectant mothers in Aba. Health care providersshould be encouraged to disseminate information on NNJ to the general population in places of worship, communal andsocial gatherings.

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