Perception of care givers regarding danger signs of illness and practices followed in young infants (0–2 months) as per IMNCI at selected areas of Amritsar, Punjab: A qualitative study

BACKGROUND: In India, neonatal mortality contributes to over 64% of infant deaths, mostly occurring during the first week of life. Mortality rate in second month of life is also higher than at later ages. Delay in identification of warning signs of neonatal illness naturally postpones the initiation of treatment and referral to hospital. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study aimed to explore the perception of care givers regarding danger signs of illness and practices followed in young infants. Care givers who cared for the sick young infants during last six months were recruited using a convenient sampling technique and qualitative research approach. Five semi-structured interviews and one FGD were conducted using an interview and FGD guide. Data was analyzed manually by reading and rereading the transcribed verbatim leading to the emergence of themes, subthemes, and codes. RESULTS: Data explored that excessive crying was perceived as a danger sign by entire mothers, and many of them were unable to recognize important warning signs. The delay in decision making for medical care-seeking also shows dwindling awareness. Additionally, mothers were adapting few unhygienic practices as home remedies leading to worsening the symptoms and making a call for additional infections which needs to be addressed by the health authorities at community level. CONCLUSION: Pronounced efforts are expected to raise mindfulness of mothers toward the significance of early identification of neonatal danger signs to stave off the high magnitude of neonatal mortality. Inclusion of excessive crying as neonatal danger sign is recommended as well.