Mothers Knowledge and Home Management ofNappy Rash in Port Harcourt, Nigeria

Abstract

Background Nappy rash is thought to affect up to a third of nappy-wearing babies at any given time. It is not a disease but just an irritation of the skin which when severe, becomes painful and distressing for the  infant, and a source of great anxiety for caregivers. This study evaluated the knowledge and home management of nappy rash amongst mothers in Port Harcourt
Methods A cross-sectional study of mothers presenting with children aged 2 years and below to the  Paediatric Outpatient Clinics of the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital. A structured,  anonymous, selfadministered questionnaire was used to obtain information on biodata, awareness information, response and practices. Data were analysed using SPSS version 17. 0.
Results A total of 141 mothers participated in the study. Seventy-five (53%) of them had post secondary education. Disposable diapers only were used by 45% of respondents, 10% used cloth napkin only. Level of education significantly affected type of diaper used (P=0.002). Baby's diaper was changed 3 times  during the day and once at night by 41%. Most mothers (80%) regularly applied Vaseline on baby's  bottom, 14% applied powder. In the preceding 6 months, 34% of babies had nappy rash with the number of episodes varying from 1 to 5. Most respondents (73%) applied anti-fungal cream to the rash, only 10% exposed the bottom.
Conclusion Knowledge of, and home treatment of diaper rash is poor amongst our mothers. There is need for awareness I enlightenment campaigns about skin care of young children targeted at mothers.

Keywords: Mothers knowledge; Home care; Nappy Rash; Diaper; Napkin,