RESUMO
The objective was to determine the role of newborn workshop in promoting mothers' knowledge. This is an interventional study [before and after study]. Training courses in neonatal care were held with participants including 150 women visiting the child health center. Learning material was offered in two parts, 1. taking care of healthy newborn and, 2. common neonatal problems. The rate of correct answers to the questions related to neonatal problems was significantly higher than that of incorrect answers. In one half of the questions concerning nutrition and neonatal care there was no difference between rates of correct and incorrect answers, and in the other half, the rate of correct answers was significantly higher than incorrect ones. The study also showed a significant difference between mothers' knowledge before and after workshops [p=0.00]. Several variables, such as age, job, number of pregnancies, number of children, and mother's level of education were evaluated. Results showed that none of them had any effect in increasing mothers' knowledge before and after classes. Regarding the extension of necessary information for mothers and to exterminate wrong attitudes facing neonates [especially first child], there is a need for education of mothers dealing with neonatal daily care, breast feeding and common neonatal problems