Feasibility study for use of an educational program on essential newborn care practices for mothers in selected urban communities of Delhi: A pilot study

Abstract

Background: The first month of life (neonatal period) represents the most critical period for child survival. Although neonatal mortality has declined by 44% since 2000, nearly half (47%) of all deaths in children under five years of age in 2022 occurred during the neonatal period. This phase remains one of the most vulnerable stages and necessitates enhanced quality newborn care. Therefore, implementing strategies to strengthen mothers' capacity to provide essential newborn care is imperative. This study was done to assess the feasibility of using a developed educational program on essential newborn care practices among mothers. Methodology: A pre-experimental study design was employed for the present research. Study participants were initially approached during the antenatal period, and the same mothers were subsequently contacted within 3 to 7 days postpartum for the first pre-test assessing essential newborn care practices. Following this, an intervention was administered. Two post-tests were conducted: the first on the 7th day after the intervention and the second on the 28th day of the postnatal period to evaluate essential newborn care practices. Results: Study findings proved there was an improvement in essential newborn care practices among mothers as compared to essential newborn care practices from pre-test 10(10.34) to post-test I 65.86(7.93) and post-test II 79.86(1.99). The mean (SD) practice scores were enhanced, respectively. Conclusion: The educational intervention was found to be effective in improving essential newborn care practices among mothers.