Testing a scalable community-based approach to improve maternal and neonatal health in rural Nepal.
J Perinatol 2010;
30:388-95. [PMID:
19907428 DOI:
10.1038/jp.2009.181]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE
The aim of the study was to determine the feasibility of improved maternal-neonatal care-seeking and household practices using an approach scalable under Nepal's primary health-care services.
STUDY DESIGN
Impact was assessed by pre- and post-intervention surveys of women delivering within the previous 12 months. Each district sample comprised 30 clusters, each with 30 respondents. The intervention consisted primarily of community-based antenatal counseling and dispensing and an early postnatal home visit; most activities were carried out by community-based health volunteers.
RESULT
There were notable improvements in most household practice and service utilization indicators, although results regarding care-seeking for danger signs were mixed.
CONCLUSION
It is feasible in a Nepal setting to significantly improve utilization of maternal-neonatal services and household practices, using the resources available under the government primary health-care system. This has the potential to significantly reduce neonatal mortality.
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