Investigating the Effect of Implementing a Web-Based Educational Program on Fathers’ Involvement in Infant Care 0 to 6 Months

BACKGROUND: Fathers need education to understand their role in infant care and its implications regarding the child’s health. Virtual education has been able to compensate for the shortcomings of traditional training and education, and with respect to this, the present study was conducted to determine the effect of virtual education on fathers about infant care and their involvement in infant care. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The quasi-experimental study was performed on 83 participants in healthcare centers affiliated with North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences. The involvement of fathers in infant care was assessed with a questionnaire of the father’s involvement in the care of the infant (mother-reported) in 4-time points: 3-5 days, and 2, 4, and 6 months after birth. Educational materials based on the child’s growth and needs and as well as the latest references and national guidelines were prepared, and as the infant grew, were taught step by step to fathers using Soroush’s messenger while their questions were answered. RESULTS: The mean score of total father involvement in infant care at two, four, and six months after childbirth was significantly higher in the intervention group than in the control group (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: With regard to the lack of access to fathers during their working hours, virtual education can be used to increase their involvement in infant care.