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Practice of breast feeding and infant feeding among female paramedical workers of tumkur, karnataka

Authors:Girish B , Rajanna MS , Sarwar Khan Tharin , Ohurrat Ul Ain Afshan , Barun Garg , Priyanka
Int J Biol Med Res. 2013; 4(3): 3364-3368  |  PDF File

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Breast feeding is most important determinants of child survival, birth spacing and prevention of childhood infections. It allows mother and baby to emotionally bond in a special way that cannot be matched, since it meets both the nutritional and nurturing needs. Paramedical workers help to impart correct knowledge and practice among women beneficiaries {pregnant, lactating mothers and women in reproductive age group}. It is important for the health workers to have adequate scientific knowledge about infant breast feeding. The present study is to assess the knowledge and attitude of health workers with regard to infant feeding and also to identify gaps in their knowledge. Objectives: 1. To assess the practice of breast feeding in female paramedical workers. 2. To assess the practice of infant feeding in female paramedical workers. Methodology: A Cross Sectional Analytical study was conducted for 2 months in Tumkur taluk, Karnataka. Paramedical workers having at least one child were included in the study. A pre-tested questionnaire was used to interview the paramedical workers.Results: Majority (52%) of the paramedical workers are in the 31 to 40 age group. Most of the interviewed paramedical workers were nurses and ANMs. Majority (64%) had two or less no. of children that shows good family planning practice. 38% started breast feeding within half an hour which is a good practice. Majority (82%) of the population studied avoided pre-lacteal feed which is a good practice and among those who fed, honey was the most common pre-lacteal feed given. Approximately 1/3rd of the population studied had breast fed exclusively for 6 months which is recommended practice, while 46% started weaning earlier than 6 months due to various reasons. 56% avoided the practice of bottle feeding which is a good practice. Majority of the workers avoided using pacifiers which is a good sign. 68% of paramedical workers stopped breast feeding of the children age of less than two year which is in advised.