A Study to Assess the Knowledge and Practices Regarding Prevention of Childhood Diarrhoea Among Mothers of Under-Five Children in Selected Rural Community of Rajasthan

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Background: Diarrheal sickness is still a major health risk for children under five, especially in areas with poor hand hygiene, unsafe drinking water, poor sanitation, and improper feeding practices. Mothers are crucial in preventing diarrhea and giving their kids the proper care at home.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional research design and a quantitative research methodology were used. Using a non-probability convenience sampling technique, a sample of 100 moms with children under five was chosen from a particular rural community in Rajasthan. A practice checklist, a knowledge questionnaire about preventing childhood diarrhea, and a structured sociodemographic questionnaire were used to gather data. The analysis employed both descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results: The illustrative findings showed that 18% of mothers had inadequate knowledge, 57% had moderately adequate knowledge, and 25% had adequate knowledge regarding prevention of childhood diarrhoea. Regarding preventive practices, 24% had poor practices, 56% had moderate practices, and 20% had good practices. A significant association was observed between maternal knowledge and selected socio-demographic variables. The findings indicate the need for strengthening community-based health education regarding diarrhoea prevention and home management.

Conclusion: The study emphasizes how crucial it is to raise maternal awareness of childhood diarrhea and develop preventative measures. Through health education, ORS preparation demonstrations, hand hygiene, safe water, sanitation, breastfeeding, and prompt healthcare-seeking behavior, community health nurses may make a big difference.

Keywords: Childhood Diarrhoea, Under-Five Children, Mothers, Knowledge, Practices, Prevention, Community Health Nursing.