Effectiveness Of a Structured Teaching Programme on Knowledge Regarding First Aid Management of Dog Bite Among Mothers: A Pre-Experimental Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.53926/YNJR/0030Keywords:
structured teaching programme, dog bite, first aid, knowledge, pre-experimental study, rabies prevention, community health educationAbstract
Background: Dog bites constitute a significant public health problem, particularly among children, and are associated with physical trauma, wound infections, and the risk of fatal rabies transmission. Mothers, as primary caregivers, are pivotal in delivering immediate first aid; however, their knowledge regarding appropriate first aid management of dog bites is often inadequate. Structured teaching programmes (STPs) have demonstrated effectiveness in improving health-related knowledge in community settings.
Objectives: To assess pre-test knowledge of mothers regarding first aid management of dog bite; to evaluate the effectiveness of an STP by comparing pre- and post-test scores; and to determine the association between pre-test knowledge and selected demographic variables.
Methods: A pre-experimental one-group pre-test post-test design was employed. Fifty (N=50) mothers of children below 9 years residing in Aliparamba Panchayat Ward-4, Malappuram district, Kerala, were selected by non-probability convenience sampling. Data were collected using a validated structured knowledge questionnaire comprising 20 items. A 30-minute STP incorporating pamphlets and demonstrations was delivered. Reliability and content validity were established through expert review and a pilot study. Descriptive statistics, paired t-test, and chi-square test were used for analysis.
Results: Pre-test assessment revealed that 12% of mothers had poor knowledge, 78% had average knowledge, and 10% had good knowledge (mean 8.84, SD 2.38). Post-test findings showed a marked improvement: 76% of mothers achieved good knowledge and 24% average knowledge, with none remaining in the poor category (mean 15.72, SD 1.08). The mean difference was 6.88. The paired t-test yielded t(49)=19.47 (p<0.001), confirming statistically significant improvement. Chi-square analysis found no significant association between pre-test knowledge scores and demographic variables (p>0.05).
Conclusion: The STP significantly improved mothers' knowledge regarding first aid management of dog bites. Community-based educational interventions are recommended to empower caregivers, reduce complications, and mitigate rabies-related morbidity and mortality.
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