Knowledge and Attitude Towards Postpartum Depression among Nurses Working at Family Health Care Centers in Giza Governorate: Impact of Educational Intervention Program

Abstract

Background: postpartum depression (PPD) is a serious issue having severe consequences on both the mother and child. Nurses working  in family health care centers, play a crucial role in identifying and managing PPD, but they may have inadequate knowledge.

Objective: This study aimed to assess the knowledge and attitude of nurses towards PPD, to assess perceived barriers to diagnose and  manage PPD, to provide PPD education sessions, then reassess their knowledge and attitude.

Materials and method: A pre- and post-test intervention study that was conducted at four family health centers and included 83 nurses. Knowledge and attitude questionnaires were used.

Results: after the educational sessions the mean percent knowledge score increased significantly from 13.2 ± 10 to 56.6 ± 11.4, the  percentage of agreements in aspects related to nurses’ role in identification and management of PPD increased significantly and the  percentage of nurses who perceived barriers decreased significantly.

Conclusion: This study highlighted the importance of provision educational programs to maternal health care, which play a vital role in  the early detection, treatment, and referral for professional management.