Predictors of Breastfed Mother's knowledge, Attitude and Practice during COVID-19 Pandemic

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 professor of pediatric nursing- faculty of nursing- mansoura university

2 Professor of Public Health & Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Egypt

Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has posed several challenges to breastfeeding (BF) mothers. Aim: to assess Knowledge, attitude and practice of breast-fed mothers during pandemic of COVID 19. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 208 mothers-infant dyads attended to primary health office for vaccination and outpatient department of different children's hospitals in Mansoura, Egypt. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data about COVID-19 in general as well as knowledge, attitude and practice of BF during COVID-19 pandemic. Results: The linear regression revealed that mother’s education is an independent predictor of COVID-19 general knowledge and attitude scores. Mothers’ work and general knowledge are independent predictors of knowledge BF during COVID-19. Mothers’ education is an independent predictor of attitude score. Knowledge BF during COVID-19 and attitude are independent predictors of practice score. Conclusion: Mother’s education and work are independent predictors of knowledge BF during COVID-19, their attitude and practice. Recommendation: Ongoing educational program for mothers about COVID-19 and breast feeding.

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