Project – Knowledge attitudes of nursing mothers towards immunisation in umuagu health center in Delta State
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
- Background to the Study
Immunisation remains one of the most effective public health interventions for preventing infectious diseases, particularly in children. Nursing mothers play a crucial role in ensuring that their children receive timely and appropriate immunisation. However, research consistently highlights a gap in the knowledge and attitudes of nursing mothers toward immunisation, which can significantly influence immunisation uptake and coverage rates. Studies have shown that a lack of awareness, misconceptions about vaccine safety, and socio-cultural beliefs often contribute to vaccine hesitancy among nursing mothers. A better understanding of these factors is essential to develop targeted strategies that improve immunisation rates in communities (MacDonald, 2015; SAGE, 2017).
A significant body of research suggests that the knowledge of nursing mothers regarding immunisation is often insufficient. A study by Adebayo et al. (2018) found that a majority of nursing mothers in Nigeria had limited knowledge about the types of vaccines their children were supposed to receive, the schedule for these vaccinations, and the importance of completing the full vaccine course. This lack of knowledge was further exacerbated by misinformation and misconceptions about the potential side effects of vaccines, which led to reluctance in seeking immunisation services. Similarly, a study in India by Gupta et al. (2020) reported that mothers with limited educational background were less likely to have accurate information about immunisation and were more likely to harbor misconceptions about vaccine safety.
Attitudes towards immunisation also play a pivotal role in vaccine uptake among nursing mothers. A positive attitude towards vaccination is often correlated with higher vaccination rates, while negative attitudes contribute to vaccine hesitancy and refusal. In a study conducted by Adeyemo et al. (2019), Nigerian nursing mothers exhibited a positive attitude towards vaccination, primarily due to the belief that immunisation is essential for their child’s health and protection against disease. However, this positive attitude was undermined by concerns about the safety of vaccines, particularly with regards to adverse effects. This highlights the need for health professionals to provide clear, evidence-based information to alleviate fears and misconceptions.
Social and cultural factors significantly influence the attitudes of nursing mothers toward immunisation. A study by Sanderson et al. (2021) in the UK revealed that cultural beliefs and traditions, as well as community influence, often shaped mothers’ decisions about immunisation. For example, mothers from certain cultural backgrounds expressed concerns about the perceived unnaturalness of vaccines, preferring to rely on traditional methods of disease prevention. In contrast, other mothers were influenced by peer networks, where vaccine recommendations from trusted community members played a key role in shaping immunisation attitudes. Therefore, addressing these cultural factors is essential for promoting positive immunisation attitudes in diverse populations.
The role of healthcare providers in influencing the knowledge and attitudes of nursing mothers towards immunisation cannot be overstated. Studies have shown that when healthcare providers engage in open, empathetic communication with nursing mothers, it increases their understanding and acceptance of immunisation. A study by Lin et al. (2017) found that nursing mothers who received counseling and education from healthcare professionals about the benefits and safety of vaccines were more likely to immunise their children on time. Furthermore, providing information in a culturally sensitive manner and addressing specific concerns about vaccines was found to improve immunisation coverage rates.
To improve immunisation rates among nursing mothers, it is crucial to implement strategies that address both knowledge gaps and negative attitudes. Public health initiatives that focus on education, awareness campaigns, and community engagement have been shown to be effective in increasing vaccination uptake. A systematic review by Gellin et al. (2018) emphasized the importance of community-based interventions, including the use of mobile health technology and community health workers, to disseminate accurate immunisation information and counter vaccine myths. Additionally, interventions that foster trust between healthcare providers and nursing mothers, such as building rapport and addressing specific concerns, are critical in overcoming barriers to vaccination and enhancing maternal support for immunisation.
1.2. Statement of the Problem
Immunisation is a cornerstone of public health, preventing the spread of infectious diseases and protecting the health of individuals, particularly children. Despite the widespread availability of vaccines, significant barriers to immunisation remain, especially in communities where nursing mothers’ knowledge and attitudes towards immunisation are inadequate. These barriers, often rooted in misinformation, cultural beliefs, and a lack of proper education, contribute to delays in immunisation or outright refusal, thereby jeopardizing the effectiveness of vaccination programs. The knowledge and attitudes of nursing mothers are pivotal in ensuring that children receive timely and complete immunisations, and understanding these factors is critical to improving vaccination rates and overall child health.
A significant problem observed globally is the inadequate level of knowledge among nursing mothers regarding immunisation. Many nursing mothers, especially in low-resource settings, lack sufficient understanding of the importance of vaccines and the diseases they prevent. This knowledge gap is often compounded by the misconception that vaccines are unnecessary or harmful, leading to reluctance or refusal to vaccinate their children. Studies show that mothers in certain regions, especially in rural or underserved areas, are unaware of the immunisation schedules and the essential vaccines required for their children, resulting in missed opportunities for immunisation and delayed coverage. This lack of knowledge is a key driver of low vaccination rates and contributes to outbreaks of preventable diseases, such as measles and polio, in various parts of the world.
In addition to knowledge gaps, the attitudes of nursing mothers towards immunisation significantly impact vaccine uptake. Vaccine hesitancy, often characterized by uncertainty, fear, or mistrust of vaccines, is a major concern among nursing mothers. Studies have shown that negative attitudes towards immunisation can be influenced by various factors, such as misinformation about vaccine safety, historical mistrust of healthcare systems, and cultural or religious beliefs. For instance, nursing mothers who perceive vaccines as unsafe, or who believe in myths about vaccines causing autism or other serious side effects, are less likely to immunise their children. These negative attitudes are exacerbated in areas with low levels of healthcare literacy, where mothers may not have access to credible information about vaccines or have limited opportunities to discuss concerns with healthcare professionals.
Moreover, socio-cultural factors and community dynamics often play a crucial role in shaping the attitudes of nursing mothers towards immunisation. In many societies, traditional beliefs and practices influence health-seeking behavior, and some nursing mothers may prioritize cultural practices over modern medical recommendations. For example, some mothers may favor herbal remedies or traditional medicines over vaccinations, believing that these alternatives are more effective or safer. Additionally, community networks and peer influence can either promote or hinder immunisation uptake. In communities where influential figures, such as religious leaders or respected elders, express vaccine hesitancy, nursing mothers are more likely to follow suit, perpetuating a cycle of misinformation and mistrust. These cultural and social influences are often overlooked in vaccination campaigns, making it essential for health interventions to be culturally sensitive and tailored to specific community contexts.
Healthcare providers play a critical role in addressing both the knowledge gaps and negative attitudes of nursing mothers towards immunisation. However, research has shown that the level of communication between healthcare providers and nursing mothers is often inadequate. In many instances, healthcare professionals fail to engage in meaningful discussions with mothers about the benefits and safety of vaccines, and instead, focus solely on the mechanical aspects of vaccination. This lack of communication can contribute to a lack of trust in the healthcare system and vaccine hesitancy. Furthermore, healthcare providers themselves may not always be fully equipped with the latest information or may have biases that affect their ability to provide accurate and culturally appropriate advice to nursing mothers.
The overall result of these problems is a persistent gap in immunisation coverage, particularly in vulnerable populations. This problem is further exacerbated by the global increase in vaccine misinformation spread via social media and other platforms, which fuels public doubt about vaccine safety and efficacy. Consequently, the lack of education, negative attitudes, and cultural barriers faced by nursing mothers contribute to underimmunisation and the continued prevalence of preventable diseases. Addressing these issues requires targeted public health initiatives that focus on increasing awareness, improving attitudes, and fostering trust between nursing mothers and healthcare providers. Interventions must not only educate mothers but also challenge cultural misconceptions and engage communities in discussions about the importance of immunisation to ensure better health outcomes for future generations.
1.3. Aim and Objectives of the Study
The aim of the study is to examine Knowledge attitudes of nursing mothers towards immunisation in umuagu health center in Delta State. The specific objectives are:
- To assess the level of knowledge nursing mothers have regarding immunization practices.
- To determine the attitudes of nursing mothers towards immunization in Umuagu Health Center.
- To identify any barriers nursing mothers face in accessing immunization services.
- To explore the impact of education and awareness campaigns on nursing mothers’ attitudes towards immunization.
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1.4. Research Questions
The research questions are buttressed below:
- What is the level of knowledge that nursing mothers have regarding immunization practices?
- What are the attitudes of nursing mothers towards immunization in Umuagu Health Center?
- What barriers do nursing mothers face in accessing immunization services?
- How does education and awareness campaigns impact nursing mothers’ attitudes towards immunization?
1.5. Research Hypothesis
The hypothetical statement of the study is buttressed below:
Ho: Attitudes of nursing mothers will not affect immunization practices
H1: Attitudes of nursing mothers will affect immunization practices
1.6. Significance of the Study
The significance of this study lies in its potential to address a critical gap in public health, specifically in understanding the knowledge and attitudes of nursing mothers towards immunisation. Immunisation is one of the most effective public health interventions to prevent infectious diseases in children, but its success is highly dependent on the active participation of parents, especially mothers. Nursing mothers, as primary caregivers, hold substantial influence over their children’s health decisions, including the decision to vaccinate. By exploring the knowledge gaps and attitudes of nursing mothers, this study aims to identify specific barriers that prevent timely and complete immunisation, thereby providing evidence-based insights for improving vaccination rates and public health outcomes.
Understanding the level of knowledge nursing mothers have about immunisation is critical for tailoring health education programs. Studies have consistently shown that a lack of awareness about the importance of immunisation, the recommended vaccine schedule, and the potential consequences of non-vaccination are significant barriers to vaccine uptake. By assessing the current level of knowledge among nursing mothers, this study can identify key areas where educational interventions are most needed. The results could guide the design of more effective public health campaigns and vaccination materials that provide clear, accessible, and culturally relevant information about immunisation, thereby improving mothers’ understanding and encouraging them to vaccinate their children.
The attitudes of nursing mothers towards immunisation also play a crucial role in vaccine uptake, and this study seeks to explore the underlying factors that shape these attitudes. Negative attitudes, such as vaccine hesitancy and fear of side effects, are often rooted in misinformation or a lack of trust in the healthcare system. By investigating these attitudes, the study will shed light on the specific concerns and misconceptions that nursing mothers may have about vaccines. Understanding these concerns is vital for addressing them in a compassionate and scientifically grounded manner. Health education programs can then be designed to dispel myths and promote positive attitudes toward immunisation, ultimately increasing the likelihood that nursing mothers will adhere to vaccination schedules for their children.
Furthermore, this study holds significance for healthcare providers and policymakers by providing them with valuable insights into the factors that influence vaccination decisions at the community level. The findings could inform the training of healthcare professionals, equipping them with the knowledge and communication skills necessary to address mothers’ concerns and build trust in the vaccination process. Additionally, policymakers can use the results of this study to formulate more effective strategies that tackle vaccine hesitancy at the community level. These strategies may involve the integration of culturally sensitive education, targeted outreach efforts, and the development of healthcare policies that improve accessibility and trust in immunisation services.
The social and cultural factors influencing immunisation decisions are another key aspect of this study. Many nursing mothers are influenced by cultural beliefs, family traditions, and peer networks when making decisions about their children’s health. In some communities, traditional practices may take precedence over modern medical interventions like vaccines, leading to delays or refusal of immunisation. By examining the role of these socio-cultural factors, the study can offer a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by nursing mothers in diverse communities. This will allow health interventions to be tailored to the unique cultural context of different populations, ensuring that they are not only effective but also culturally appropriate, respectful, and more likely to be embraced by mothers.
Finally, the outcomes of this study will contribute to the broader global effort to eradicate preventable diseases. High vaccination coverage is essential for achieving herd immunity and preventing the spread of diseases that disproportionately affect children. By addressing the knowledge gaps and negative attitudes that hinder immunisation, this study has the potential to contribute to global immunisation targets and reduce the burden of vaccine-preventable diseases. It also aligns with international health initiatives, such as the World Health Organization’s Immunisation Agenda 2030, which seeks to ensure that every child receives the necessary vaccines. Therefore, this study is not only significant for improving maternal and child health but also for advancing global public health goals.
1.7. Scope of the Study
The study examines the Knowledge attitudes of nursing mothers towards immunisation in umuagu health center in Delta State. The study is limited to nursing mothers in umuagu health center in Delta State
1.8. Operational Definition of Terms
Knowledge: Knowledge refers to the understanding, awareness, and information that individuals possess about a particular subject. In the context of immunisation, knowledge refers to the awareness nursing mothers have about vaccines, their importance, the immunisation schedule, and the diseases they prevent. It involves an understanding of both the benefits and potential risks of vaccines, as well as the correct practices surrounding their administration.
Attitudes: Attitudes refer to an individual’s feelings, beliefs, or dispositions toward a particular subject or behavior. In the case of immunisation, attitudes represent nursing mothers’ perceptions and emotional responses to vaccines. This includes their level of trust in the effectiveness and safety of vaccines, as well as their openness or reluctance to vaccinate their children. Attitudes can be influenced by personal experiences, cultural beliefs, misinformation, and the influence of family or community.
Nursing Mothers: Nursing mothers are women who are actively breastfeeding their infants or young children. In the context of healthcare, nursing mothers are key stakeholders in ensuring the health and well-being of their children, as they make decisions about nutrition, healthcare, and other vital aspects of child development. Their choices, particularly regarding immunisation, have a profound impact on the health of their children.
Immunisation: Immunisation is the process by which an individual is made resistant to an infectious disease by administering a vaccine. A vaccine typically contains a substance that stimulates the body’s immune system to recognize and fight specific pathogens, thus providing immunity. Immunisation is a crucial preventive measure to protect against vaccine-preventable diseases such as measles, polio, and diphtheria.
Health Center: A health center is a healthcare facility that provides a range of medical services to individuals, particularly in local or rural communities. Health centers are typically primary care facilities that offer preventive, diagnostic, and treatment services. In the context of immunisation, health centers play a central role in providing vaccines, educating mothers about immunisation schedules, and addressing concerns related to vaccine safety and effectiveness. These centers may also offer maternal and child health services, such as prenatal and postnatal care.
Project – Knowledge attitudes of nursing mothers towards immunisation in umuagu health center in Delta State