Traditional methods for managing illness in newborns and infants in an Arab society

Abstract

Aim This study explored self‐management practices in relation to traditional methods for managing illness in newborns and infants and the implications of these practices on infant health. Background Self‐medication with folk remedies is believed to have short‐ and long‐term impacts on well‐being. Little is known about how mothers in Arab societies used their traditional beliefs and practices in self‐managing their newborns’ and infants’ health. Methods Data were collected from five focus groups using open‐ended questions with 37 mothers. Participants were selected using snowball sampling and were recruited from four different cities in Jordan between June 2016 and August 2016. Ethical approval All identifying information regarding the study participants has been omitted, and this study was approved by the Academic Research Committee at the University of Jordan. Findings Mothers were more willing to try herbal remedies, traditional massage and certain foods to self‐manage their infants’ health. Folk remedies were not restricted to traditions handed down through generations, but included a representation of newly emerged trends towards ‘safety’ or ‘nature’. Conclusions While the use of folk remedies have been handed down generations as customs, today, virtual support groups and social media provide modern resources for folk remedies’ promotion in care and self‐management. Implications for nursing and health policy Nursing and health policymakers can use our findings for planning and developing strategies and health policies that increase public awareness about adverse health effects associated with herbal remedies. Such strategies are likely to be facilitated through partnerships between nursing and midwifery education institutions, antenatal clinics and social media in the region.

Evaluation of the Predictive Power of the Theory of Planned Behavior on the Intention of Pregnant Women to Neonatal Care

“…In contrast another study in Jordan [35] and Arab society [36] which showed that neonatal care in mothers most lacked knowledge.…”

Beliefs About Illness and Treatment Decision Modelling During Ill-Health in Arabic Families

“…10 In a country like Jordan where family ties and cultural heritage are paramount and pervasive, health beliefs may influence health outcomes or may produce certain traditional practices that may shape self-management of illnesses. 2 There is increasing recognition that families are often involved in decision-making during illness; however, little is known about how health beliefs influence decisions or behaviours related to managing an illness in the Arab world. Such knowledge will enable successful translation of culturally specific programs targeting health promotion and self-management of illness in Arab societies.…”

“…It has been suggested that a person interested in folk remedies may use a complex system of traditional remedies mostly based on psychosocial interventions, mild herbs, ritualistic behaviour or household items. 2 , 3 The use of folk remedies to manage illness is often influenced by family beliefs and the natural or social environment they live in. 4 , 5 In this instance, understanding the relationship between health beliefs and traditional practices is important in conceptualising the capacity of families to manage illness during acute or chronic illness.…”

“… 10 In a country like Jordan where family ties and cultural heritage are paramount and pervasive, health beliefs may influence health outcomes or may produce certain traditional practices that may shape self-management of illnesses. 2 …”

“…A recently published studies of care practices and management of illnesses in Arab mothers demonstrated the importance of acknowledging traditional folklore and situating it within a family context. 2 Understanding the underlying relationship of Arab culture to health beliefs and practices is a key factor in any treatment strategy that involves modifications of behaviours and other lifestyle intervention. 4 …”