Knowledge and practices among Mothers about Care of their children with Beta Thalassemia Major: A descriptive Study

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Community Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Mutah University, Jordan

2 Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Al Neelain University, Sudan

Abstract

Background: Thalassemia is a major health problem in Jordan that requires extensive
attention and management. Aim of the study: to assess the current knowledge and care
practices of mothers of thalassemia children about thalassemia. Design: A descriptive design
was used. Subjects: A purposive sample of mothers with thalassemic children (45 mothers)
was used. Tools: A structured questionnaire to assessed demographic data, knowledge, and
care practices of mothers regarding thalassemia. Results:The majority of mothers had low
levels of knowledge regarding thalassemia and the majority practiced the administration of
Desferal tablets incorrectly. No significant association was found between knowledge and
care practices of mothers and their socio-demographic characteristics. Conclusion:
Jordanian mothers of thalassemic children do not have adequate knowledge on thalassemia
and their practice towards their children in dealing with thalassemia was very poor.
Recommendations: Health education programs on knowledge and care practices about
thalassemia be introduced for mothers of thalassemic children in every public hospital in
Jordan

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