Prevalence of Cesarean Section Among Nurses: Predictors and Effect on Exclusive Breastfeeding.

ABSTRACT

Introduction: The prevalence of cesarean sections (CSs) in both industrialized and developing nations is a significant issue for public health officials, particularly in light of the knowledge of their socioeconomic underlying determinants. Objective: To ascertain the prevalence of CS delivery among nurses, their predictors, and the effect it has on exclusive breastfeeding practice in Tamale, Ghana. Methods: This study used a quantitative technique and an analytical cross-sectional design. Data analysis was done using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, and variable associations and predictions were identified using chi-square and logistics regression analysis. Results: There were 326 fully completed and returned questionnaires; the majority (40.0%) of respondents were registered general nurses (RGN). The majority of respondents (56.0%) were between the ages of 31 and 40. The prevalence rate of CS delivery was 21.1%. Predictor variables were; Community health nurses/RGN (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 3.7, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.2-11.0), and second degree/first degree level of educational attainment (AOR = 36.0, 95% CI = 2.4-528.9). The effects of CS delivery on exclusive breastfeeding were; low confidence to exclusively breastfeed, opting to combine both breastfeeding and artificial feeding, and less likely to practice exclusive breastfeeding. Conclusion: Even though CSs and exclusive breastfeeding practices are both problems facing nurses, CSs seem to compound the problem of exclusive breastfeeding among nurses.