Assessment of Medical Officers Regarding Knowledge on Integrated Management of Neonatal and Childhood Illness in Belagavi District

ABSTRACT

Background: To decrease morbidity and mortality in under-5 children and also to improve their growth and development, integrated management of neonatal and childhood illness (IMNCI) strategy was adopted in India in 2005.Objective: The objective of the study was to assess the knowledge of medical officers regarding IMNCI in five talukas of Belagavi district.Materials and Methods: Across-sectional study was conducted on 50 medical officers who have undergone IMNCI training. Participants were selected across five talukas of Belagavi district by convenience sampling. Ethical clearance was obtained. Data were collected from each participant using a pretested questionnaire after obtaining informed consent. All the questions were based on IMNCI guidelines. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 22.Results: Median score of knowledge was 13.2% of medical officers had inadequate knowledge, 54% had moderate knowledge, and 22% had adequate knowledge.Conclusion: The overall knowledge score of medical officers regarding IMNCI was good, but periodic refresher training workshops should be conducted to reaffirm and update the existing knowledge.