A STUDY ON THE AWARENESS AND PREVENTION OF CHILDHOOD PNEUMONIA AMONG NURSING MOTHERS ATTENDING INFANT WELFARE CLINIC IN UNIVERSITY OF BENIN TEACHING HOSPITAL (UBTH) BENIN CITY, EDO

Abstract

The study investigated maternal awareness and preventive practices regarding childhood pneumonia among nursing mothers attending the Infant Welfare Clinic at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH). A quantitative survey research design was adopted to gather insights from 120 respondents using a structured questionnaire. The data collected were analyzed using frequency tables to present demographic information and respondents' perceptions on awareness and preventive measures related to childhood pneumonia. The findings revealed significant relationships between maternal awareness of childhood pneumonia and the preventive practices adopted. Through the application of one-sample t-tests, it was determined that there was a substantial level of awareness among mothers, coupled with proactive preventive measures such as vaccination adherence and exclusive breastfeeding. Socio-demographic factors were found to influence both awareness and preventive practices significantly, highlighting the role of factors like age, education, and marital status in shaping maternal behaviors. In conclusion, the study underscores the importance of targeted health education interventions aimed at enhancing maternal knowledge and practices concerning childhood pneumonia. The findings suggest that tailored educational programs focusing on symptom recognition, vaccination uptake, and breastfeeding promotion could yield substantial benefits in reducing childhood pneumonia incidence and severity. Additionally, the study recommends that healthcare providers at UBTH and similar settings should prioritize accessible and culturally sensitive health information dissemination to empower mothers in making informed decisions about their children's health. This research contributes to the existing literature by providing empirical evidence of maternal perceptions and behaviors concerning childhood pneumonia in a specific healthcare setting. However, the study is not without limitations, including potential response biases inherent in self-reported data and the restricted generalizability of findings beyond the study's sample. Future research could explore these aspects further by incorporating longitudinal designs and expanding the scope to include diverse demographic groups and healthcare facilities, thereby enhancing the applicability and robustness of the findings.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background to the Study

Childhood pneumonia remains one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality among children under five years of age globally. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), pneumonia is responsible for approximately 15% of all deaths of children under five years old, claiming the lives of 808,694 children in 2017 alone (WHO, 2020). In Nigeria, pneumonia is a significant public health challenge, contributing to high child mortality rates. The prevalence of pneumonia is exacerbated by factors such as poor nutrition, lack of exclusive breastfeeding, inadequate immunization, and limited access to healthcare services (National Population Commission, 2019). The situation is further complicated by environmental factors such as indoor air pollution and crowded living conditions, which increase the risk of respiratory infections among young children (Millar et al., 2022).

Awareness and prevention of childhood pneumonia among nursing mothers are critical in reducing the incidence and severity of the disease. Nursing mothers play a pivotal role in the health and well-being of their children, and their knowledge and practices regarding pneumonia can significantly impact the outcomes. Effective prevention strategies include adequate nutrition, immunization, and prompt medical attention when symptoms arise (Eseigbe et al., 2022). Education and awareness campaigns targeting nursing mothers are essential components in the fight against childhood pneumonia. These campaigns should emphasize the importance of recognizing early symptoms of pneumonia and seeking immediate medical care to prevent complications and fatalities (Yaya et al., 2021).

The University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) in Benin City, Edo State, is a leading healthcare institution in Nigeria, providing comprehensive maternal and child health services. The Infant Welfare Clinic at UBTH serves as a critical point of care for nursing mothers and their children, offering immunizations, growth monitoring, and health education (Dougherty et al., 2020). Understanding the level of awareness and the preventive practices adopted by nursing mothers attending this clinic is vital for developing targeted interventions to reduce the burden of childhood pneumonia. Regular educational sessions at the clinic can help reinforce the importance of preventive measures and empower mothers with the knowledge to protect their children from pneumonia (King et al., 2022).

A study on the awareness and prevention of childhood pneumonia among nursing mothers attending the Infant Welfare Clinic at UBTH can provide valuable insights into current practices and gaps in knowledge. Such a study can also identify barriers that prevent mothers from adopting recommended preventive measures. For instance, factors such as socioeconomic status, educational background, and cultural beliefs may influence health-seeking behavior and adherence to preventive practices (Adedokun & Yaya, 2020). Addressing these barriers through tailored interventions can enhance the effectiveness of pneumonia prevention programs and improve health outcomes for children (Odu et al., 2023).

One of the primary preventive measures against childhood pneumonia is immunization. Vaccines such as the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccine are crucial in protecting children from common bacterial causes of pneumonia (Fashanu et al., 2020). Despite the availability of these vaccines, coverage rates remain suboptimal in many parts of Nigeria. Increasing vaccine coverage through routine immunization programs and outreach services is essential to reduce the incidence of childhood pneumonia (Abdulkadir & Abdulkadir, 2017). Furthermore, ensuring that vaccines are accessible and affordable for all segments of the population can help bridge the gap in immunization coverage (Greenslade et al., 2020).

Adequate nutrition is another critical factor in the prevention of childhood pneumonia. Malnutrition weakens the immune system, making children more susceptible to infections (Ibraheem et al., 2018). Promoting exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life and providing nutritious complementary foods thereafter can significantly reduce the risk of pneumonia and other infections. Programs that support breastfeeding and educate mothers on proper infant feeding practices are vital components of pneumonia prevention strategies (Ujunwa & Ezeonu, 2022). Additionally, addressing food insecurity and ensuring that families have access to sufficient and nutritious food can contribute to better health outcomes for children (National Bureau of Statistics and UNICEF, 2022).

Environmental factors such as indoor air pollution from cooking with biomass fuels and exposure to tobacco smoke also contribute to the high incidence of childhood pneumonia (Odu et al., 2023). Reducing indoor air pollution through the use of cleaner cooking technologies and creating smoke-free environments can lower the risk of respiratory infections among children. Public health campaigns that raise awareness about the dangers of indoor air pollution and promote the adoption of safer cooking practices are essential (Noordam et al., 2017). Additionally, policies and programs that support the provision of clean energy sources for cooking can have a significant impact on reducing indoor air pollution (United Nations, 2022).

Access to healthcare services is another crucial determinant of childhood pneumonia outcomes. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential for managing pneumonia and preventing complications (Noordam et al., 2021). However, many children in Nigeria face barriers to accessing healthcare, including geographical distance, cost of services, and lack of trained healthcare providers. Strengthening healthcare infrastructure, increasing the availability of trained health workers, and ensuring that healthcare services are affordable and accessible to all can improve the management of childhood pneumonia (Abdulkadir et al., 2022). Additionally, implementing community-based health programs that bring healthcare services closer to the population can enhance access to care (Kirolos et al., 2018).

In essence, childhood pneumonia remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria and globally. Preventing pneumonia through strategies such as immunization, adequate nutrition, reducing indoor air pollution, and improving access to healthcare services is critical. Nursing mothers play a key role in the prevention of childhood pneumonia, and their awareness and practices significantly impact the health outcomes of their children. The University of Benin Teaching Hospital, through its Infant Welfare Clinic, is well-positioned to implement effective awareness and prevention programs targeting nursing mothers. Understanding the current level of awareness and the preventive practices among nursing mothers can guide the development of targeted interventions to reduce the incidence and severity of childhood pneumonia. By addressing the various factors that contribute to pneumonia and enhancing preventive measures, it is possible to significantly reduce the burden of this disease and improve the health and well-being of children in Nigeria (Tekalign et al., 2022).

1.2 Statement of Problem

Childhood pneumonia remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among children under five years of age globally, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. In Nigeria, the burden of pneumonia is exceptionally high, contributing significantly to child mortality rates. Despite various interventions, pneumonia is responsible for approximately 15% of all deaths of children under five years old, claiming the lives of over 808,694 children worldwide in 2017 alone (WHO, 2020). The prevalence of pneumonia in Nigeria is exacerbated by several factors, including poor nutrition, lack of exclusive breastfeeding, inadequate immunization, and limited access to healthcare services (National Population Commission, 2019).

A major issue contributing to the high incidence of childhood pneumonia is the low level of awareness and preventive practices among nursing mothers. Many mothers lack adequate knowledge about the causes, symptoms, and prevention of pneumonia, leading to delayed care-seeking and poor health outcomes for their children (Adedokun & Yaya, 2020). Furthermore, socioeconomic barriers and cultural beliefs often hinder mothers from adopting effective preventive measures, such as timely immunization and proper nutrition (Eseigbe et al., 2022).

The University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) in Benin City, Edo State, serves as a critical healthcare provider for many families. The Infant Welfare Clinic at UBTH offers an opportunity to educate nursing mothers on the importance of pneumonia prevention. However, there is limited information on the current level of awareness and the preventive practices among mothers attending this clinic (Dougherty et al., 2020). Understanding these aspects is crucial for developing targeted interventions to reduce the burden of childhood pneumonia.

Without adequate awareness and preventive measures, the incidence of childhood pneumonia will remain high, leading to continued morbidity and mortality among children. Therefore, there is a pressing need to assess and improve the knowledge and practices of nursing mothers regarding pneumonia prevention at UBTH (Kirolos et al., 2018). By addressing these gaps, it is possible to reduce the incidence of pneumonia and improve child health outcomes in Nigeria.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The specific objectives of this study were:

1. To assess the level of awareness of childhood pneumonia among nursing mothers attending the Infant Welfare Clinic at UBTH.
2. To evaluate the preventive practices adopted by nursing mothers to protect their children from pneumonia.
3. To identify the factors influencing the awareness and prevention of childhood pneumonia among nursing mothers at UBTH.

1.4 Research Questions

The following research questions guided this study:

1. What is the level of awareness of childhood pneumonia among nursing mothers attending the Infant Welfare Clinic at UBTH?
2. What preventive practices are adopted by nursing mothers to protect their children from pneumonia?
3. What factors influence the awareness and prevention of childhood pneumonia among nursing mothers at UBTH?

1.5 Research Hypotheses

The study tested the following hypotheses:

1. There is no significant relationship between the level of awareness of childhood pneumonia and the preventive practices adopted by nursing mothers attending the Infant Welfare Clinic at UBTH.
2. Socio-demographic factors do not significantly influence the level of awareness and prevention of childhood pneumonia among nursing mothers at UBTH.

1.6 Significance of the Study

The study on awareness and prevention of childhood pneumonia among nursing mothers attending the Infant Welfare Clinic at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) in Benin City, Edo State, holds substantial significance for several reasons.

Firstly, understanding the level of awareness and preventive practices among nursing mothers is crucial for addressing the high burden of childhood pneumonia in Nigeria. Pneumonia remains one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality among children under five years of age. Despite various interventions, the disease continues to claim numerous young lives. By evaluating the awareness and practices of nursing mothers, this study aims to identify knowledge gaps and misconceptions that may contribute to the high incidence and severity of pneumonia. The findings can guide the development of targeted educational programs that enhance mothers' knowledge and promote effective preventive practices, ultimately reducing the prevalence of childhood pneumonia.

Secondly, the study highlights the pivotal role that nursing mothers play in the health and well-being of their children. Mothers are often the primary caregivers and decision-makers regarding their children's health. Their knowledge and actions significantly influence health outcomes. By focusing on nursing mothers, the study emphasizes the need to empower them with accurate information and practical skills to prevent pneumonia. Improved maternal knowledge and practices can lead to early recognition of pneumonia symptoms, timely medical intervention, and adherence to preventive measures such as immunization and proper nutrition.

Moreover, this study underscores the importance of healthcare institutions like UBTH in promoting child health. The Infant Welfare Clinic at UBTH serves as a critical point of contact for nursing mothers and their children, offering immunizations, growth monitoring, and health education. By assessing the awareness and preventive practices of mothers attending this clinic, the study can provide insights into the effectiveness of existing health education programs. The findings can help healthcare providers refine their strategies to better address the needs of mothers and enhance the overall quality of care.

Furthermore, the study has the potential to inform policy and program development at a broader level. The insights gained from this research can be used by public health officials, policymakers, and non-governmental organizations to design and implement more effective pneumonia prevention and control programs. By highlighting the specific challenges and barriers faced by nursing mothers, the study can advocate for policies that ensure better access to healthcare services, improved immunization coverage, and enhanced nutritional support for children.

In addition, the study contributes to the existing body of knowledge on childhood pneumonia prevention. It adds valuable data on the factors influencing maternal awareness and practices in a specific Nigerian context. This information can be used for comparative studies in different regions and populations, fostering a deeper understanding of the global and local dynamics of pneumonia prevention.

Finally, the study has broader implications for maternal and child health beyond pneumonia. The findings can be leveraged to improve health education and preventive practices for other common childhood illnesses. By promoting a culture of proactive healthcare among nursing mothers, the study can contribute to overall improvements in child health and survival rates.

1.7 Scope of the Study

The study focused on nursing mothers attending the Infant Welfare Clinic at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) in Benin City, Edo State. It assessed the level of awareness and the preventive practices regarding childhood pneumonia among these nursing mothers. The study also examined the socio-demographic factors influencing awareness and prevention practices. The data collection period spanned six months, during which nursing mothers who visited the clinic were surveyed.

1.8 Operational Definition of Terms

1. Awareness: The knowledge or perception of nursing mothers about the causes, symptoms, and prevention of childhood pneumonia.
2. Prevention: The actions or measures taken by nursing mothers to protect their children from contracting pneumonia, including immunization, nutrition, and seeking medical care.
3. Childhood Pneumonia: An infection of the lungs in children under five years old, characterized by symptoms such as cough, fever, and difficulty breathing.
4. Nursing Mothers: Women who are breastfeeding their children and attending the Infant Welfare Clinic for child health services.
5. Infant Welfare Clinic: A healthcare facility at UBTH that provides services such as immunizations, growth monitoring, and health education to nursing mothers and their children.
6. Immunization: The process of administering vaccines to children to protect them against infectious diseases, including pneumonia.
7. Nutrition: The provision of adequate and appropriate food to children to support their growth and immune system, thereby preventing infections like pneumonia.
8. Socio-demographic Factors: Characteristics of nursing mothers such as age, education level, income, and marital status that may influence their awareness and prevention practices regarding childhood pneumonia.