Evaluation of knowledge and attitude about neonatal jaundice in mothers of neonates born in Shahid Rajaee General Hospital, Tonekabon

 Neonatal jaundice is due to increased bilirubin and is seen in 50% of the term and 80% of preterm neonates. Due to dangerous side effects of this disease, prompt referral of neonates is important in accurate diagnosis and treatment. Meanwhile, the knowledge and attitude of mothers about neonatal jaundice is of great importance. So, this study was performed to assess the knowledge and attitude of postnatal mothers over neonatal jaundice in Tonekabon, North of Iran.

This descriptive observational study was conducted on 365 mothers, whose neonates were born with jaundice and delivered at Shahid Rajaee general hospital, Tonekabon, from September 2016 to May 2017. The subjects were interviewed using a structured questionnaire. The questionnaire was used to evaluate the subject’s knowledge and attitude about neonatal jaundice. Statistical analysis was performed suitably by chi-square and pearson correlation using SPSS 22.

In response to questions, mother's knowledge about neonatal jaundice was the most and the attitude over causes of jaundice in neonates had the least correct response. Among cases, 78.36% had moderate or lower knowledge, and 4.93% had less than a moderate attitude. There was also a significant relationship between age, socioeconomic status and mother's education with knowledge about neonatal jaundice.

Findings show the importance of increase in mother’s knowledge about neonatal jaundice, providing them helpful settings for education and promoting their life's level and style.