Year: 2026 | Month: October | Volume: 13 | Issue: 10 | Pages: 565-571
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijrr.20261051
A Descriptive Study to Assess the Knowledge and Attitude Regarding Diaper Use Among Postnatal Mothers at Selected Hospital, Virudhunagar
Prof. M. Pearls Jentcy1, S. Muthu Mari2, M. Petchiammal3, M. Muthu Rathinam4, M. Muthu Selvi4, A. Nandhini Devi4, R. Oviya Sri4, G. Pavithra4, R. Pavithra 4
1,2,3,4V.V. Vanniaperumal Nursing College for Women, Virudhunagar.
Corresponding Author: Prof. M. Pearls Jentcy
ABSTRACT
Background: The postnatal period is an important time for mothers to learn and practice essential newborn-care skills. Mothers and families require appropriate information, counselling and support to provide safe care for the newborn after birth. The World Health Organization recommends quality postnatal care that addresses the needs of both mothers and newborns. ¹ Newborn skin differs from adult skin because its protective barrier is still developing. It is more delicate and sensitive to moisture, friction and other external factors. ², ³ The diaper area requires special attention because it is frequently exposed to urine, faeces and moisture. Prolonged exposure to moisture and repeated friction may contribute to skin irritation and erythema. ³, ⁴
Proper diaper care is therefore an important component of newborn hygiene. Regular diaper changing, gentle cleaning and appropriate care of the diaper area can help maintain skin health and reduce the risk of irritation. ³, ⁴ Mothers need adequate knowledge of these practices to ensure that diapers are used safely and appropriately.
Objectives: The purpose of the study was to assess the knowledge and attitude regarding diaper use among postnatal mothers at a selected hospital in Virudhunagar.
Methodology: A sample of 60 postnatal mothers were selected using a non-probability purposive sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured interview schedule and a five-point Likert scale. The collected data were organized, tabulated and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistical techniques.
Results: Among the 60 postnatal mothers, 6 (10%) had inadequate knowledge, 22 (37%) had moderately adequate knowledge and 32 (53%) had adequate knowledge regarding diaper use. Regarding attitude, none of the mothers (0%) had an unfavourable attitude, 40 (67%) had a neutral attitude and 20 (33%) had a favourable attitude toward diaper use. Overall, the findings indicated that a majority of the postnatal mothers had adequate knowledge, while most had a neutral attitude toward diaper use.
Conclusion: The study findings indicate that although the majority of postnatal mothers had adequate knowledge regarding diaper use, a considerable proportion demonstrated a neutral attitude. Therefore, appropriate health education and counselling may be beneficial in promoting positive attitudes and appropriate diaper-use practices among postnatal mothers.
Keywords: Knowledge, attitude, diaper use and postnatal mothers.
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