ABSTRACT
Objective: To assess the usage pattern of child health development record (CHDR) as an information source by the mothers of children aged 6-24 months admitted to a ward in Lady Ridgeway Hospital (LRH) and to assess their level of knowledge and practices on infant and young child feeding (IYCF). Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted in a paediatric ward in LRH from 1st February to 31st August 2009 on mothers with children aged 6-24 months. Feeding patterns, maternal knowledge on messages given in CHDR and selected socio-demographic factors were examined using a pre-tested interviewer-administered questionnaire. Association of feeding practices and socio-demographic characteristics were analyzed using non parametric tests. Ethical approval was granted by the ethical review committee of LRH. Results: Of the 300 mothers administered questionnaires 5 were excluded due to incomplete data. Of the 295 mothers included in study, 36% had passed GCE ordinary level. Of the children, 72% started complementary feeding after 6 months. Nearly 50% of children had satisfactory diet in terms of quality, quantity and frequency. Maternal IYCF knowledge was significantly associated with maternal educational level and reading of CHDR feeding instructions. Conclusion: Mothers have an acceptable level of knowledge on IYCF and satisfactory level of usage of CHDR as an information source. Reading CHDR has a significant impact on higher maternal IYCF knowledge and better IYCF practices.