Effectiveness of the Training on Infant and Young Child Feeding Practices among Anganwadi Workers at a Rural Teaching Hospital: A Cross Sectional Study

Sunidhi karol; Dr Mohit Karol

Volume : VII, Issue : XII, December - 2017

Effectiveness of the Training on Infant and Young Child Feeding Practices among Anganwadi Workers at a Rural Teaching Hospital: A Cross Sectional Study

Sunidhi Karol, Dr Mohit Karol

Abstract :

Background: Anganwadi workers (AWW) are trained community based female workers working under Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS). She is trained in various aspects of health, nutrition especially of nutrition of children below age six years, so is an essential agent for mobilizing community support for promotion of infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices and hence would help in reducing child malnutrition rates exorbitantly in any area. Rationale: The AWW is key functionary who can guide mothers with appropriate IYCF practices in a perfect way provided she herself has correct knowledge regarding IYCF practices. Objective: To assess the knowledge and attitude of Anganwadi workers regarding IYCF practices. Material and Methods: 132 Anganwadi workers were assessed for their knowledge and attitudes regarding IYCF practices. Both pre–test and post–test evaluations were done. Results: The demographic characteristic revealed that 100% of workers were literate; however, majority were 8th standard pass and only 11.4% were graduate and above. The mean age of AWWs was 46.36 ± 10.56 years. There was significant difference (P<0.000; 95% CI 1.11–4.35) between mean pre–test scores (7.08 ± 1.57) and post–test scores (8.96 ± 1.91) of Anganwadi Workers.