Assessment of Neonatal Jaundice and It’s Effects Among Mothers in Model Primary Health Centre Okpanam Delta State.
CHAPTER ONE
Objective of the study
The objective of this study is to assess neonatal jaundice and its effects among mothers in the Model Primary Health Centre. To achieve this overarching goal, the study will focus on the following specific objectives:
- To assess the prevalence of neonatal jaundice among newborns attending the Model Primary Health Centre.
- To investigate the level of knowledge and awareness of neonatal jaundice among mothers.
- To examine the attitudes of mothers regarding neonatal jaundice
CHAPTER TWO
REVIEWED OF RELATED LITERATURE
Neonatal Jaundice
Neonatal jaundice is a common condition in newborns characterized by an elevated level of bilirubin in the blood, leading to a yellowing of the skin and eyes. This condition arises from the immaturity of the liver, which is often unable to process bilirubin effectively during the first few days after birth.
Neonatal jaundice can be classified into two main categories: physiological and pathological. Physiological jaundice is a normal occurrence that usually resolves within two weeks as the newborn’s liver matures. Pathological jaundice, on the other hand, can indicate underlying health issues, such as hemolytic disease, infections, or metabolic disorders (Kaplan & Borgenicht, 2015).
This is common in newborns, especially those who are premature. It typically appears on the second or third day of life and resolves by the end of the first two weeks. This type is generally harmless and is due to an immature liver’s inability to conjugate bilirubin (Kumar et al., 2020).
This form appears within the first 24 hours of life and may be caused by conditions such as hemolytic disease of the newborn, infections, or congenital hypothyroidism. It requires immediate medical evaluation and intervention (Maisels & Gardner, 2006).
The diagnosis of neonatal jaundice involves a physical examination to assess the extent of jaundice and a blood test to measure bilirubin levels. Total serum bilirubin (TSB) levels above certain thresholds, which vary based on the infant’s age in hours, help determine the severity of jaundice (Linden et al., 2015).
Treatment options depend on the bilirubin levels and the underlying cause of jaundice. Common treatments include:
- Phototherapy: This is the most widely used treatment for lowering bilirubin levels in newborns. It involves exposing the infant to specific wavelengths of light, which helps to convert bilirubin into a form that can be easily eliminated from the body (Gennaro et al., 2017).
- Exchange Transfusion: In severe cases where bilirubin levels are dangerously high or rising rapidly, an exchange transfusion may be performed. This procedure involves replacing the infant’s blood with donor blood to rapidly lower bilirubin levels (Kumar et al., 2020).
- Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG): This treatment may be used in cases of hemolytic disease of the newborn caused by Rh or ABO incompatibility, helping to reduce the need for exchange transfusions (Maisels & Gardner, 2006).
Neonatal jaundice is a prevalent condition that requires careful monitoring and management. While most cases are physiological and self-limiting, pathological jaundice necessitates prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent potential complications. Healthcare providers play a crucial role in educating parents about the signs and symptoms of jaundice and ensuring appropriate interventions are initiated when needed.
CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
INTRODUCTION
In this chapter, we described the research procedure for this study. A research methodology is a research process adopted or employed to systematically and scientifically present the results of a study to the research audience viz. a vis, the study beneficiaries.
RESEARCH DESIGN
Research designs are perceived to be an overall strategy adopted by the researcher whereby different components of the study are integrated in a logical manner to effectively address a research problem. In this study, the researcher employed the survey research design. This is due to the nature of the study whereby the opinion and views of people are sampled. According to Singleton & Straits, (2009), Survey research can use quantitative research strategies (e.g., using questionnaires with numerically rated items), qualitative research strategies (e.g., using open-ended questions), or both strategies (i.e., mixed methods). As it is often used to describe and explore human behaviour, surveys are therefore frequently used in social and psychological research.
CHAPTER FOUR
DATA PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS
INTRODUCTION
This chapter presents the analysis of data derived through the questionnaire and key informant interview administered on the respondents in the study area. The analysis and interpretation were derived from the findings of the study. The data analysis depicts the simple frequency and percentage of the respondents as well as interpretation of the information gathered. A total of eighty (80) questionnaires were administered to respondents of which only seventy-seven (77) were returned and validated. This was due to irregular, incomplete and inappropriate responses to some questionnaire. For this study a total of 77 was validated for the analysis.
CHAPTER FIVE
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
Introduction
It is important to ascertain that the objective of this study was to ascertain Assessment Of Neonatal Jaundice And It’s Effects Among Mothers in Model Primary Health Centre Okpanam Delta State.. In the preceding chapter, the relevant data collected for this study were presented, critically analyzed and appropriate interpretation given. In this chapter, certain recommendations made which in the opinion of the researcher will be of benefits in addressing assessment Of Neonatal Jaundice And It’s Effects Among Mothers in Model Primary Health Centre Okpanam Delta State.
Summary
This study was on assessment Of Neonatal Jaundice And It’s Effects Among Mothers in Model Primary Health Centre Okpanam Delta State.. Three objectives were raised which included: To assess the prevalence of neonatal jaundice among newborns attending the Model Primary Health Centre, to investigate the level of knowledge and awareness of neonatal jaundice among mothers and to examine the attitudes of mothers regarding neonatal jaundice. A total of 77 responses were received and validated from the enrolled participants where all respondents were drawn from Health Centre Okpanam Delta State. Hypothesis was tested using Chi-Square statistical tool (SPSS).
Conclusion
The assessment of neonatal jaundice and its effects among mothers in Model Primary Health Centre Okpanam, Delta State, revealed significant insights into the prevalence, knowledge, and psychological impacts associated with this condition. The findings indicated that while many mothers were aware of neonatal jaundice, their understanding of its causes, potential complications, and management was often inadequate. Consequently, a notable percentage of mothers exhibited elevated levels of stress and anxiety regarding their newborns’ health, which further emphasized the need for improved education and support systems. The study underscored the importance of timely medical intervention and the necessity for healthcare providers to engage with mothers, addressing their concerns and equipping them with the knowledge to manage neonatal jaundice effectively.
Recommendations
- Healthcare facilities, particularly primary health centres, should implement comprehensive educational programs aimed at increasing mothers’ knowledge about neonatal jaundice. These programs should cover its causes, symptoms, and treatment options, focusing on dispelling myths and misconceptions that may lead to delayed care.
- Establish support groups for mothers of newborns with jaundice to provide a platform for sharing experiences and coping strategies. Peer support can help reduce feelings of isolation and anxiety, fostering a sense of community among mothers facing similar challenges.
- Continuous professional development and training for healthcare providers are essential to ensure they are equipped to address mothers’ concerns effectively. This training should include communication skills to provide empathetic care, as well as updates on the latest guidelines for managing neonatal jaundice.
- Develop and distribute informational materials (brochures, pamphlets, and digital content) that are easily accessible to mothers, explaining neonatal jaundice in simple language. These resources should be culturally sensitive and available in local languages to ensure better understanding.
- Engage in community outreach initiatives to raise awareness about neonatal jaundice in rural and underserved areas. Collaborating with community leaders and local organizations can enhance outreach efforts and ensure that more mothers receive vital information.
References
- Hassall, E., Leung, K. M., & Li, P. (2019). Psychological impact of neonatal jaundice: A qualitative study. Journal of Neonatal Nursing, 25(2), 89-95.
- Hussain, R., Sadiq, F., & Ali, F. (2020). Awareness of neonatal jaundice among mothers in urban areas of Pakistan. Journal of Pediatric Care, 6(2), 41-46.
- Kumar, P., Sharma, R., & Gupta, A. (2018). Knowledge and awareness of neonatal jaundice among mothers in a rural setting of India. Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care, 7(3), 501-505.
- Mabiala, B. L., Tchouanga, P., & Dolo, F. (2017). Social support and mental health in mothers of infants with health challenges. Health Psychology Research, 5(1), 61-68.
- Bansal, P., Jain, V., & Bansal, A. (2017). Prevalence and pattern of neonatal jaundice in a tertiary care hospital. International Journal of Contemporary Pediatrics, 4(5), 1613-1617.
- Hussain, R., Sadiq, F., & Ali, F. (2020). Awareness of neonatal jaundice among mothers in urban areas of Pakistan. Journal of Pediatric Care, 6(2), 41-46.
- Kumar, P., Sharma, R., & Gupta, A. (2018). Knowledge and awareness of neonatal jaundice among mothers in a rural setting of India. Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care, 7(3), 501-505.
