Neonatal Jaundice: Perception of Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Clinic at a Tertiary Hospital in Southwest, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Severe neonatal jaundice (NNJ) remains a leading cause of preventable brain damage, mental handicap, physical disabilities, and early death among infants. Methods: Using a descriptive cross-sectional study design, information was gathered using a structured, pretested questionnaire from 518 pregnant women who attended the antenatal clinic at a tertiary Hospital in Southwest Nigeria. Results: Most (77%) of the respondents have heard about NNJ prior the survey. Most respondents (69.5%) demonstrated poor knowledge of the causes of NNJ. The majority, 98.4% had good attitude toward treatment of NNJ. Most respondents (72.1%) demonstrated poor knowledge of the correct treatment of NNJ. A quarter of the respondents knew no danger sign of NNJ. Conclusion: There is serious knowledge gap among the respondents about the causes, treatment, dangers signs and complications of NNJ. There is need for increased awareness campaign using every available means of reaching women of reproductive age group to reduce the consequences of this common neonatal problem.

Risk Factors and Outcome of Neonatal Hyperbilirubinemia: A Case Control Study in a Tertiary Level Paediatric Hospital

“…Previous studies on NNJ in Nigeria reported a poor knowledge about its causes, management and complications among pregnant women. [17][18][19][20][21][22] Interestingly in our study, we found less than four antenatal visits as a significant risk factor for neonates to become jaundiced. The risk is 13 times more among cases which indicate the indirect impact of less visits and parental awareness which eventually lead to delay in admission for phototherapy.…”

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Neonatal Hyperbilirubinemia in a Semi-Rural Area of the Democratic Republic of Congo: A Cohort Study

“… 13 Furthermore, studies conducted in similar settings (e.g., Nigeria and Ghana) on knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward NH among expectant mothers and caregivers have shown that limited knowledge and poor attitude can lead to delays in seeking care as well as delays in treatment. 14 – 17 In this study, we evaluated the prevalence of NH in a cohort of in-hospital births in a semi-rural area of Kinshasa (DRC) and the association between NH and neonatal and maternal risk factors. We also investigated expectant mothers’ knowledge and practices regarding this condition.…”