Assessing the quality of information, education and communication during antenatal care at Chiradzulu District Hospital
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Date
2017-02-01
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Abstract
Every pregnant woman attending antenatal care (ANC) is supposed to be informed, educated and communicated on various health areas regarding pregnancy and its outcomes. Information, education and communication (IEC) is considered as one of the major factors that help in reducing maternal mortality as it intends to develop positive attitudes towards behaviours in different cultures in order to support pregnant women accessing health services when required. This study aimed at assessing the quality of IEC offered during ANC at Chiradzulu District Hospital. The study had a descriptive design that employed quantitative methods of data collection and analysis. The sample size was 384 pregnant women who reported for ANC. Data was analysed using a Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0. The researcher computed the statistics in form of frequency tables, pie charts and graphs to summarise the data. Results reveal that information necessary for pregnant women according to participant’s manual in integrated maternal and neonatal care for Malawi is not provided and some information is given in inadequate amount. The IEC is offered by both skilled (58.3%) and unskilled attendants using a few teaching and learning resources. However, majority of the respondents (45.6) reported that no teaching resources were used. In conclusion, IEC that is offered during antenatal care at Chiradzulu District Hospital, antenatal department is of poor quality. Quality IEC improves women’s ability to plan for various areas of care so as to meet the necessary needs during pregnancy. If IEC of good quality is provided to pregnant women, maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality rates can be reduced.