AWARENESS, ATTITUDES AND PREVENTIVE PRACTICES OF CHILDHOOD PNEUMONIA AMONGST NURSING MOTHERS ATTENDING UNIVERSITY OF MEDICAL SCIENCES TEACHING HOSPITAL, ONDO STATE.
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Childhood pneumonia remains a significant public health concern globally, particularly in low- and middle-income countries like Nigeria. This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of nursing mothers regarding childhood pneumonia prevention in Ondo State, Nigeria. A structured questionnaire was administered to 78 nursing mothers attending the University of Medical Sciences Teaching Hospital in Ondo State. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, regression analysis, and multiple linear regression. The findings revealed varying levels of knowledge, attitudes, and practices among nursing mothers regarding childhood pneumonia prevention. While there was generally high awareness of pneumonia as a serious illness and the importance of vaccination, gaps were identified in recognizing pneumonia symptoms and understanding preventive measures. Financial constraints, lack of awareness, and cultural beliefs were identified as significant barriers to accessing healthcare services and implementing preventive measures. Regression analysis indicated that lack of awareness about preventive measures, financial constraints, cultural beliefs, and lack of access to healthcare facilities were predictors of overall perceptions of pneumonia preventive measures among nursing mothers. These findings highlight the need for targeted educational campaigns, community-based interventions, and health system strengthening to improve knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding childhood pneumonia prevention.
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