Authors:
Jamale S. El-Eid
1
;
Nabil Georges Badr
1
;
Salim M. Adib
1
and
Bernard Gerbaka
2
Affiliations:
1
Higher Institute of Public Health - Faculty of Medicine, Saint Joseph University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
;
2
Department of Epidemiology and Population Studies, American University of Beirut, Lebanon
Keyword(s):
Preterm Birth, NICU Training, Knowledge Acquisition, Role of Internet.
Abstract:
Adequate family education and knowledge regarding basic preterm baby care is essential to enhance parents’ experience and alleviate the quality of life with preterm babies. Our study looks at the extent to which knowledge affects the confidence of new mothers. It explores other potential factors, sources of knowledge, and the role of technology and online content. The research model for our empirical investigation takes the foundations of the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) theory as the central survey framework of the theory of planned behaviour. The study results showed that NICU training has a significant impact on mothers' knowledge levels regarding the care of preterm babies after their discharge from the NICU. Findings revealed a prevalent reliance on unofficial online sources such as Google, social media, and other informal websites, rather than official resources like the WHO, CDC, or similar trusted platforms. Knowledge level emerged as a significant predictor of t
he dependent variable, maternal confidence, with a predictability score of 43.6%. This suggests that improved knowledge fosters greater confidence, particularly among first-time mothers who often rely on secondary internet sources to bridge their knowledge gaps and boost their confidence. These findings highlight opportunities for healthcare providers and health authorities to improve information generation and dissemination and foster support systems for parents.
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