Knowledge, attitude and practice of puerperal and expectant mothers on neonatal jaundice in selected health facilities in Tamale metropolis, Ghana
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Background
Neonatal jaundice (NNJ) remains a prevalent and potentially dangerous condition during the neonatal period. It is a leading cause of neonatal hospitalization and, if not recognized early, can result in irreversible neurological complications such as kernicterus. Globally, the burden of NNJ is disproportionately high in low- and middle-income countries, especially in the Ghanaian setting. Despite this, community-level awareness and timely care-seeking remain suboptimal due to myths, misconceptions, and inadequate knowledge among mothers.
Objective
To assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices of puerperal and expectant mothers regarding neonatal jaundice in Tamale Metropolis.
Methods
A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 229 puerperal and expectant mothers recruited from three public health facilities using multistage random sampling. Structured questionnaires were used to assess knowledge, attitude, and practices. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26. Descriptive statistics and multivariate regression were used to examine associations between sociodemographic variables and outcomes. Statistical significance was determined at p<0.05.
Results
Among 229 participants, 50.7% were aged 25–35 years. Overall, 55.0% demonstrated good knowledge of NNJ, while 45.0% had poor knowledge. Regarding attitudes, 65.1% showed a positive attitude towards NNJ. Most respondents (78.2%) believed that NNJ requires hospital treatment, and 56.8% endorsed exposing newborns to early morning sunlight. In terms of beliefs, 81.7% rejected the notion that jaundice enhances a baby’s appearance, and 79.9% disagreed that yellow discoloration indicates healthy growth. About 72.0% exhibited good beliefs and practices. Knowledge of mothers, attitude and perception, and employment status were found to be significant determinants of beliefs and practice toward NNJ.
Conclusion
While most mothers demonstrated favorable attitudes and appropriate practices towards neonatal jaundice, gaps in knowledge persist. Strengthening health education during antenatal and postnatal care is essential to promote timely recognition and management of NNJ.
