Effectiveness of awareness lecture in improving the knowledge about learning disability among primary school teachers

Background: This study was done to assess the pre-existing knowledge about' Learning Disability (LD) among primary school teachers and the effect of awareness lecture on improving their skills in' early identification and remediation of LD among children having poor scholastic performance.Method: The study was conducted as a part of the IAP state President's action plan 2018-2019 'VIBGYOR'. The study sample consisted of 709' primary school teachers of government schools in Malappuram district in Kerala. The teacher's knowledge level on LD was assessed using a questionnaire following which an awareness class was given. Their knowledge level was assessed again at the end of the class.Results: There is a significant increase in knowledge level about learning disability among the teachers after the awareness lecture (p value<0.001).Conclusion: This study implicates the need for intensive training programmes to primary school teachers on learning disability so as to identify it at an early stage among children with poor scholastic performance.

Study about the knowledge and attitude of antenatal women on postnatal care and immunisation

Background: Optimum postnatal care, exclusive breast feeding and vaccination are the most essential factors for the adequate growth and development of a child. Interventions to improve these can result in reduction in infant morbidity and mortality. The study was done to assess the knowledge level and attitude of antenatal mothers on postnatal care and immunisation.Methods: This is a cross-sectional descriptive study done in a private medical college in Kerala conducted during September 1 to 31st 2018. All pregnant ladies attending the medical college hospital for antenatal check-up during the study period and willing to participate were included. Data collection was done by interviewing the participants using pretested and edited questionnaire and analysed by applying proportions.Results: The awareness about postnatal care and breast feeding was good among participants while lacking in a few aspects. Majority of them had the right knowledge about pre-lacteal feeds, colostrum and timing of initiation of breast feeding. But there was a gap between the knowledge they possessed and what they practised when it comes to vaccination.Conclusions: There is a need to educate antenatal mothers about various aspects of vaccination and postnatal care.