Knowledge regarding early initiation of breastfeeding among the health care workers, Dharwad, Karnataka: A descriptive study

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to assess the knowledge regarding early initiation of breastfeeding among the health care workers working in selected hospitals of Dharwad District, Karnataka. Methods: The study employs Non-Experimental design with descriptive survey approach was used for the study. Data collected from a sample of 100 participants through non-probability purposive sampling. Knowledge was evaluated using a structured knowledge questionnaire. The methodology ensures systematic data collection and evaluation of the participants' knowledge. Results: The study findings, based on a sample of 100 participants, revealed a varied level of understanding, with 53% of healthcare workers scoring in the ‘Poor’ category (Score range: 1–10), 38% in the ‘Average’ category (score range: 11–20), and only 9% achieving a ‘Good’ score (score range: 21–30). These results indicate that a majority of healthcare workers had inadequate knowledge of early initiation of breastfeeding, emphasizing the need for enhanced educational efforts. Conclusion: These results highlight the need for enhanced educational efforts to improve knowledge about the early initiation of breastfeeding among healthcare professionals Key Words: Knowledge, Health Care Workers.