Objective: To assess the usage pattern of child health development record (CHDR) as an information source by the mothers of children aged 6-24 months admitted to a ward in Lady Ridgeway Hospital (LRH) and to assess their level of knowledge and practices on infant and young child feeding (IYCF). Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted in a paediatric ward in LRH from 1 st February to 31 st August 2009 on mothers with children aged 6-24 months. Feeding patterns, maternal knowledge on messages given in CHDR and selected sociodemographic factors were examined using a pretested interviewer-administered questionnaire. Association of feeding practices and sociodemographic characteristics were analyzed using non parametric tests. Ethical approval was granted by the ethical review committee of LRH. Results: Of the 300 mothers administered questionnaires 5 were excluded due to incomplete data. Of the 295 mothers included in study, 36% had passed GCE ordinary level. Of the children, 72% started complementary feeding after 6 months. Nearly 50% of children had satisfactory diet in terms of quality, quantity and frequency. Maternal IYCF knowledge was significantly associated with maternal educational level and reading of CHDR feeding instructions. Conclusion: Mothers have an acceptable level of knowledge on IYCF and satisfactory level of usage of CHDR as an information source. Reading CHDR has a significant impact on higher maternal IYCF knowledge and better IYCF practices.
Introduction:Sri Lanka has a rapidly aging population with an exponential rise in chronic morbidity. There had been no parallel development of palliative and end-of-life care-specific approach in health care.Aim:To implement sustainable palliative and end-of-life care services in Sri Lanka through the existing systems and resources by advocacy, collaboration, and professional commitment.Methods:Sri Lanka Medical Association established a volunteer task force for palliative and end-of-life care (PCTF) in October 2016, which comprised of multi-disciplinary health care professionals, legal fraternity, and civil society. PCTF identified the need for sensitizing the general public on the importance of palliative care, for standard guidelines and formal training for practicing health care professionals engaged in hospital and community-based palliative care. These needs are addressed through activities of PCTF in collaboration with the Ministry of Health.Results:Representing the National Steering Committee of Palliative Care, the members of the PCTF were instrumental in developing the National Strategic Framework to fill the major gap of affordable quality palliative care in the country. PCTF also published the “Palliative Care Manual for Management of Non-Cancer Patients” as a preliminary guide for health care professionals. The draft document on the End-of-Life Care Guidelines has been formulated and is currently being reviewed by the relevant medical and legal stakeholders. PCTF has organized CME lectures on palliative care all over the country for health care professionals, and also conducted lectures, exhibitions, and mass media programs to sensitize the public on palliative care.Discussion:Within a brief period, PCTF has played a key role to recognize palliative care by contributing to policy making, training, and public sensitization in palliative and end-of-life care in Sri Lanka.
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