Publication:

Cross sectional study on newborn care practices in a rural area

Background NMR contributes to two-third of infant mortality and proper newborn care is essential for achieving the target of reduction in IMR. The present study was conducted to find the newborn care practices in a rural community and to explore the associated factors.

Methods The present community based cross sectional study was conducted upon children born in the study area within past three months. Mothers were interviewed using pretested proforma.

Results It was seen that 87.3% children were cared by their mothers, rooming-in was universal, 82.1% children were kept warm, early bathing was avoided by 45.8% mothers, 96.2% of children were given vaccine at birth and umbilical stump hygiene was maintained in 61.3% cases.

Conclusions The newborn care practices are far from ideal. Community based interventions can be helpful to improve the same.