Community health worker knowledge and perceptions of neonatal jaundice in Kumasi, Ghana.

ABSTRACT

Background: This study sought to understand community health workers' (CHW) knowledge and perceptions of community beliefs surrounding neonatal jaundice (NNJ), a treatable but potentially fatal condition prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa. Methods: In this cross-sectional qualitative study, CHWs in Kumasi, Ghana, completed in-depth interviews with trained research assistants using a semi-structured interview guide. Interviews were audiotaped, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using grounded theory methodology. Results: Knowledge of NNJ varied widely among the 23 respondents 74% knew NNJ could cause death, 57% knew how to screen for NNJ. 35% of CHWs favored home treatment (sunlight therapy or watchful waiting). Three main themes emerged CHWs perceived that caregivers prefer home treatment, equating hospital care with death; sunlight and herbs are the most common home treatments; and caregivers attribute NNJ to supernatural causes, delaying jaundice diagnosis. Interpretation: Incomplete understanding of NNJ among trained CHWs and local communities will require improved education among both groups to improve outcomes.