Pregnant Women's Knowledge regarding Kangaroo Care.

Abstract

Background: Kangaroo mother care (KMC) is the concept of skin-to-skin contact (SSC) between a parent or surrogate and a newborn or infant child. Kangaroo care has been found to reduce mortality and morbidity in preterm infants, increase weight gain in premature babies and improve emotional attachment in mothers.The aim of the study was to assess pregnant women's knowledge regarding kangaroo care through assessment of the pregnant women's knowledge. Research design: a descriptive design was utilized to achieve the aim of this study. Settings: The study was carried out at the antenatal clinic and department affiliated to Maternity Hospital Ain Shams University. Subjects: A simple random sample technique was used to recruit 240 pregnant women. All pregnant women in third trimester were included in the study.Tools: First tool was a structured interview questionnaire, It was composed of 3 parts, demographic characteristics of the pregnant women, Obstetrical history and Pregnant Women's' Knowledge regarding Kangaroo Care. Results: sixty seven point five percent of the studied women had incorrect knowledge regarding the premature baby and kangaroo care. Conclusion: more than two thirds of the studied women have unsatisfactory level of knowledge regarding kangaroo care. Recommendation: Neonatal intensive care units should include updated policies related to developmental supportive care for neonates.