Young Nurses Journal of Research (YNJR) is an online platform for young nurses in clinical and teaching area to publish their research articles to the world. Through this online journal YNJR bring you the newest and most exciting articles related to innovations in nursing research. With resourceful articles and scientific presentations from various reputed young nursing authors, we keep you up to date on the latest and greatest part of nursing research. Our Motto is to keep you connected to the new information you need. From informative scientific articles to case studies and review articles we continue to bring evidenced based nursing updates you need and love. Our vision is to ensure that nurses at all levels are able to provide vital research contributions to the field of nursing. Frequency : 04 Issues per year.
Innovation: Nurse practitioner in Midwifery (NPM) The Future of Indian Nursing
Nursing innovation is a fundamental source of progress for health care systems around the world. According to a report by ICN (2009), innovation in nursing applications is extremely important for improving health, preventing diseases, describing and avoiding risk factors, developing healthy life standard attitudes because innovation helps updated knowledge, method and services be invented and discovered by the institutions. Innovation starts with a good idea, but it is much more than that. It also refers to the process of turning that good idea into something that can be used, something that is implementable and achievable, and hopefully, will bring about better health promotion, disease prevention and better patient care [4]. Considering the necessity for trained human resources to give quality care to 30 million pregnancies each year in India and at a similar time recognizing the challenges earlier, Government of India has proposed an alternate model of service provision for strengthening reproductive, maternal and neonatal health services by nurse practitioners in midwifery through Midwife Led Care Units (MLCUs). The ‘Guidelines on Midwifery Services in India’ set transformative change must be at the center of midwifery education. The ‘Midwifery Services Initiative’ aims to create a new cadre of midwives titled “Nurse Practitioner in Midwifery” (NPM) who are skilled in accordance with ICM competencies, knowledgeable and capable of providing compassionate women centered, reproductive, maternal and new-born health services (RMNCH) and to develop an enabling environment for integration of this cadre into the general public health system so as to achieve the SDGs for maternal and new-born health (MoHFW, 2018). The Nurse Practitioner in Midwifery (NPM) will be responsible for promotion of health of women throughout their life cycle, with special focus on women during their childbearing years and their new-born's. She will be responsible for providing respectful maternity care during preconception, pregnancy, childbirth, and post-natal period including the care of new born. Introduction of NPM will help to strengthen our health work force, and will go a long way in addressing the country’s core need of strengthening human resources for health, and it will empower the nurse practitioner in midwifery as leaders, in tandem with the global movement of role expansion and empowerment of nurse midwives.
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A Study To Assess The Perception Of Conventional Teaching Versus Online Class Teaching Among Nursing Students In Selected Colleges Of Lucknow
Background of the Study: In the last decade online teaching and learning have become a major part of formal and informal education. Despite the current expansion of online teaching and learning settings, the most common use of online teaching and learning still appears to be the same: putting a specific content of face-to-face teaching on the web using a learning management system.[4] Compared with traditional class room lectures, faculty has less control over online teaching, and students are more likely to skip the class. Therefore, the progress of online teaching and its learning effectiveness largely depend on students' high level active learning outside of classroom. The students have difficulties due to the lack of a good learning attitude. Students often have problems such as lack of self - discipline, suitable learning materials or good learning environments when they are self-isolated at home. [4] As per the above affirm mentioned reasons, the researchers felt that it is important to analyze the effectiveness of the perception towards conventional class teaching and online class teaching. Aim of this study is to find out comparison between perception of conventional class teaching versus online class teaching. Materials & Methods: A descriptive survey research method was used. 100 students who fulfilled the inclusion criteria like BSc Nursing first year to third year students who attended the online class and class room teaching regularly for a minimum period of 3 months or more were selected by using convenience sampling technique. Semi structured questionnaire was used for the collection of data from the samples through an online survey. Inferential and descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data. Results: The mean value (77.73) and standard deviation (14.26) of online class teaching is higher than mean value (77.13) and standard deviation (13.01) of conventional class teaching. The t- test value is (1.88) shows highly significant at (0.05) level of confidence. So online class teaching is more effective than the conventional class teaching. Conclusion: From the present study it can be concluded that the flexible study hours and the environment as well as the decreased study pressure may be reasons for the online classes to be more effective than conventional class teaching.
A Study to Assess the Knowledge Regarding the Hazards of Tobacco Use Among the Drivers in Selected Areas of Lucknow
Background of the Study: Several countries have taken measures to control the consumption of tobacco with usage and sales restrictions as well as warning messages printed on packaging. Additionally, smoke-free laws that ban smoking in public places such as workplaces, theaters, and bars and restaurants reduce exposure to second hand smoke and help some people who smoke to quit, without negative economic effects on restaurants or bars. Tobacco taxes that increase the price are also effective, especially in developing countries. Even though the Government took many steps to decrease tobacco use like MPOWER, tobacco use is increasing day by day especially among the weaker sections of the society due to the lack of awareness regarding the hazards of tobacco consumption. So, the researchers decided the need of this study to be carried out. Objective of this study is to assess the knowledge regarding hazards of tobacco use among drivers. Materials & Methods: Descriptive research design was adapted for this study. The study was conducted at auto stand of Kursi road and St. Mary’s Polyclinic Road, Lucknow. 60 drivers who fulfilled the inclusion criteria were selected as samples for study, using purposive sample technique. The data collection instrument consists of three sections. Section A include personal data, Section B include clinical variables and Section - C consists of standardized questionnaire with 25 questions to assess the knowledge regarding hazards of tobacco consumption. Results: Findings of this study revealed that 36.67 % of the rickshaw drivers were having adequate knowledge regarding the hazards of tobacco use, 53.33 % of rickshaw drivers having moderate knowledge and the remaining 10 % of them were having inadequate knowledge regarding hazards of tobacco use. Conclusion: The study findings showed that samples who participated in this study predominantly have good and moderate knowledge regarding the hazards of tobacco use. Regardless of having good or moderate awareness related to the hazards of tobacco use, prevalence of tobacco use is very high among auto/rickshaw drivers.
A Study To Assess The Level of Happiness Among Nursing Faculties
Background of the study: Nursing education is considered one of the academic disciplines with higher levels of job stress. Nursing faculty are seldom viewed as a vulnerable population, yet those who teach nursing are susceptible to physical, psychological, and emotional harm from students, peers, and administrators.[13] In the nursing faculty role, individuals face multiple stressors that, if not handled in a proactive manner, may result in serious stress reactions characterized by negative behavioural, psychological, and physiological outcomes. Burnout, in particular, is a negative consequence of stress. Faculty with higher happiness levels could treat student nurses better. It will have a direct impact nurse's level of happiness and is often displayed how they act in the clinical setting and treat their patients. This study was conducted to assess the level of happiness among nursing faculties working in various colleges of Uttar Pradesh, India. Materials & Methods: Descriptive research design was used in study. The study was conducted among nursing faculties employed in Government and Private nursing colleges of Uttar Pradesh. Through Snow ball sampling method data was gathered among 79 nursing faculties from different nursing colleges. Structured self-administered questionnaire was used to obtain data from the samples. Structured self-administered questionnaire consists of two parts. Part A consists of questions related to demographic data such as Age in Years, Gender, Education, Nature of Job, Annual Income, Marital status and Employment of Spouse. Part B of the tool consists of Oxford Happiness Questionnaire. Results: The mean score of Oxford Happiness Questionnaire of this study is 4.3. Lowest score is 1 and highest score is 5.9. 56.96% of the participants score was between 4 –5. It indicates the majority of the participants of this study was rather happy or pretty happy. 17.72% of the participants score was in between 5 – 6, which indicates they are very happy. 20.25% OF participants score was in between 3 – 4, and it was interpreted as neutral (not really happy/ unhappy). Oxford Happiness Questionnaire score of 2.53 samples was in between 2 – 3 (somewhat happy). 1.27 % of the samples score was 1, which indicates that they are not happy. Conclusion: Results of our study revealed that majority of nursing faculties working in nursing colleges were found pretty happy. Interestingly level of happiness of nursing faculties participated in this study had no association with the demographic variables such as age, gender, education, nature of Job, annual Income, marital status and employment of spouse etc.
Knowledge on Breast Cancer Among College Students; Lucknow
Background: Globally, breast cancer is one of the most common cancer among females of age group 15-40 years. India is also one of the leading countries of breast cancer. It is found that incidence rate of breast cancer is higher in less developing countries in comparison to development country. In 2018, worldwide, nearly 2 million new breast cancer cases were diagnosed. Early diagnosis of breast cancer can increase the chance of early case detection and favourable outcomes, resulting in improved survival rates and quality of life of women and is therefore important public health strategy at all settings [2]. Several studies suggests that even though the incidence and mortality of breast cancer have been on the increase, the knowledge and awareness regarding the breast cancer is low among college students. Therefore, this study was conducted to assess knowledge and awareness among college students about breast cancers in Lucknow Materials & Methods: Descriptive research design was selected for this study. Target population includes the female students studying in the selected colleges of Lucknow. 87 female students were selected through non-probability, purposive sampling techniques. Data was gathered using a self-administered semi structured questionnaire. Results: Overall results of this study show that, 34 (39.08%) female students had adequate knowledge, 49 (56.32%) female students had moderately inadequate knowledge, and 04 (4.59%) female students had inadequate knowledge. Conclusion: Findings of this study revealed that knowledge of breast cancer among female college students was inadequate.
Knowledge on Iron Deficiency Anemia among Reproductive AGE GROUP Women
Background of the study: Anemia continues to be a major public health problem in developing countries including India. It is the most common cause of malnutrition in the world and is the eighth leading cause of diseases in girls and women in developing counties. About one third of the global population is anemic (WHO 2010) [1]. Knowledge regarding the causes, prevention and management of iron deficiency among reproductive age women plays an important role in reducing the mortality and morbidity rates. The aim of this study is to assess the knowledge regarding iron deficiency anemia among reproductive age group women. Methodology: By using descriptive survey design, 50 women who met the criteria were selected by purposive sampling technique. Structured questionnaire was used to gather the data. Data were analysed by descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: Findings shows that 6% of reproductive age group women had inadequate level of knowledge regarding anemia, 72% had moderate level of knowledge and 22% of them had adequate level of knowledge. Conclusion: Overall findings of this study revealed that knowledge on iron deficiency anemia was inadequate among reproductive age group women. There is a need to improve the health care services, facilities and more importantly knowledge among the women on topics related to anemia and its prevention.
Impact of COVID - 19 Lockdown on Dietary and Lifestyle Pattern of Adolescents
Background of the Study: As the Corona virus (COVID-19) pandemic is still ongoing; it has created profound impact socially, physically and emotionally on families across the globe. With confinement laws and regulations still being enforced, healthcare system is deteriorating, Economics are setting down and school closer are being extended. Unfortunately, this also led to increase vulnerability of food insecurity especially among the urban poor and increased risk of overweight and obesity in higher income classes [2]. The lock down restrictions is leading to severe repercussions on individuals; daily routine and lifestyle behaviour including food access and consumption, outdoor activities, travel, school related functions, and access to many forms of leisure and exercise [3]. Particularly alarming are the implication of the lockdown on irregular eating habits, excessive snacking, lack of physical activity, high calorie intake and increased risk of obesity [4]. The aim of this study was to assess changes in lifestyle behaviour of adolescents during the country-wide lockdown. Materials & Methods: A descriptive study design was adopted. Snowball sampling technique was used to gather data from 108 adolescents in between the age group of 11 years to 19 years. A semi-structured questionnaire was used for the collection of data from the participants through an online survey. Results: Finding reveals that 26.85% of adolescents had good impact (Healthy dietary pattern), 51.85% had average impact (Moderate changes) and 21.29% had poor impact (Drastic changes) on dietary pattern. Related to lifestyle pattern results also revealed that 39.81% of adolescents had good impact (Healthy lifestyle), 51.85% had average impact ((Moderate changes)) and none of them had poor impact (Drastic changes) on lifestyle pattern. Conclusion: The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has become a major public health concern and has changed the daily lives of citizens across the globe. Healthy eating and good life style pattern are key for health and well-being, especially when the immune system is challenged. The present study revealed a substantial increase in unhealthy dietary and lifestyle pattern among adolescents during COVID-19 lockdown.
Nutritional Status of Rural and Urban Pre- school Children; A Comparative Study
Background of the Study: Stunting, wasting, and underweight are the important nutritional status indicators for children. “While stunting is caused by long-term insufficient nutrient intake and repeated infections, wasting is a result of acute food shortage and illness. Wasting, on the other hand, is a strong predictor of mortality and requires urgent response. Underweight combines information about linear growth obstruction and weight for length/height” [7]. Understanding differences in the determinants of childhood malnutrition between urban and rural areas is important to design appropriate, relevant program and policy implementation. Aims & Objectives: The aim of the study is to assess and compare the prevalence of underweight, stunting and wasting among pre-school children in rural and urban area. Methodology: Convenient random sampling technique was used to gather data in 100 samples, 50 each from rural and urban population. Data was collected by using structured interview and anthropometric assessment. The questionnaire consisted of two parts, i.e., demographic data and questions regarding anthropometric assessment, age, height, weight etc. The three nutritional status indicators, HAZ - z-score for height-for-age, (Stunting), WAZ - z-score for weight for age (Underweight), WHZ- z – score weight for height (Wasting) were calculated using WHO Anthro survey application. Results: This study revealed that Prevalence of acute malnutrition (stunting) among rural pre-school children is 28% which was higher than the prevalence of acute malnutrition in urban pre-school children which was only 18 %. Prevalence of Underweight among rural pre-school children is 36% which was higher than the prevalence of underweight in urban pre-school children which was only 34 %. Prevalence of chronic malnutrition (wasting) among rural pre-school children is 32% which was lower than the prevalence of chronic malnutrition in urban pre-school children in which it was 46%. There is no significant association between the nutritional status of the rural and urban pre-school children with the selected demographic variables. This indicates even though there was a significant difference between the rural and urban pre-school children, both group of children are at the risk of one or other malnutrition related problems. Conclusion: This study suggests that even though there was a significant difference between the rural and urban pre-school children, both group of children are at the risk of one or other malnutrition problem
Effectiveness of Acupressure in Chemotherapy Induced Nausea and Vomiting Among Women with Reproductive Organ Cancer
Background of the study: Nausea and vomiting are among the most common and distressing symptoms that patients with cancer endure, both as a result of anti – neoplastic treatment and from the disease itself, and significantly affect patients selfcare, coping abilities, and quality of life. Effective management of these individual symptom's response must be there throughout the cancer treatment. Since the acupressure is an easily applicable method regardless of time and place, cost effective, self-controlled and noninvasive method, it can be used to treat chemotherapy induced nausea and vomiting among clients with cancer receiving chemotherapy. The purpose of this study is to assess the effectiveness of non-pharmacological method, acupressure as a treatment modality to relieve nausea and vomiting among patients receiving chemotherapy. Methodology: A quasi-experimental pre-test post-test design was adopted. The study sample comprised of 80 women admitted with ovarian cancer and cancer cervix receiving second and third cycle of chemotherapy. Non probability purposive sampling technique was adopted. Self-administered modified Rhode's index scale was administered to the women with reproductive organ cancer receiving second and third cycle of chemotherapy. The level of CINV was assessed by asking the women to indicate the level of chemotherapy induced nausea and vomiting being experienced by them. Results: Findings of this study revealed that acupressure has an effect on the women with ovarian and cervix cancer who were receiving chemotherapy by decreasing the level of CINV. Conclusion: Acupressure will be an effective adjunctive in controlling chemotherapy induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) and it can be tried in any oncological setting of clinical practice.
Quality versus Quantity in Indian Nursing Education: An Ongoing Dilemma
The rapid expansion of nursing education in India has been instrumental in addressing the growing demand for healthcare professionals. However, this quantitative growth has raised serious concerns regarding the quality of nursing education and the clinical competence of graduates. India continues to face a significant nursing workforce shortage, with nurse-to-population ratios below global benchmarks and marked regional disparities [1–3]. This review synthesizes evidence from published literature, national workforce analyses, policy documents, and regulatory frameworks to examine the persistent imbalance between quantity and quality in Indian nursing education. Key challenges identified include curriculum relevance, theory–practice gap, faculty preparedness, infrastructural inadequacies, regulatory inconsistencies, and socio-professional factors [4–8]. The review highlights strategic implications for balancing expansion with excellence through strengthened accreditation, competency-based curricula, faculty development, infrastructure investment, and integrated workforce planning [1,9–12]. Addressing these challenges is essential to ensure that the nursing workforce is not only sufficient in number but also capable of delivering safe, effective, and patient-centered care.
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Growth and Development of Toddlers in Rural and Urban Settings: A Correlational Study of Environmental Determinants
Background of the study: Early childhood, particularly the toddler period (1–3 years), is a critical phase for physical growth and developmental maturation. Environmental determinants such as housing, sanitation, water supply, and pollution play an important role in shaping child health outcomes, yet comparative rural–urban evidence linking these factors with both growth and development remains limited in the Indian context. Objectives: To assess and compare the growth and developmental status of rural and urban toddlers and to examine the association between selected environmental variables and growth and developmental outcomes among toddlers residing in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. Materials & Methods: A quantitative, comparative descriptive survey design was adopted. Sixty toddlers aged 1–3 years (30 rural, 30 urban) were selected using convenience sampling. Growth was assessed using anthropometric measurements interpreted according to WHO growth standards, while developmental status was evaluated using a structured checklist adapted from the Denver Developmental Screening Test and ICDS guidelines. Environmental variables included housing condition, drinking water source, sanitation facilities, waste water disposal, and air pollution exposure. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, and Spearman rank correlation analysis. Results: Normal growth was observed in 66.6% of rural toddlers and 80% of urban toddlers. Mean growth scores did not differ significantly between rural (5.53 ± 0.78) and urban toddlers (5.60 ± 0.89) (t = 0.308, p = 0.759). Similarly, developmental scores were comparable between rural (23.77 ± 4.46) and urban groups (24.77 ± 3.65) (t = 0.950, p = 0.346). Among rural toddlers, drinking water sources and sanitation facilities showed strong positive correlations with growth (rs = 0.700, p < 0.001), while housing condition demonstrated a significant association with developmental milestones (rs = 0.581, p < 0.01). In urban toddlers, air pollution was moderately associated with growth (rs = 0.530, p = 0.002), whereas drinking water, sanitation, and waste water disposal exhibited strong positive correlations with developmental outcomes (rs = 0.700, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Growth and developmental outcomes were broadly comparable between rural and urban toddlers; however, environmental determinants showed differential associations across settings. Safe drinking water, sanitation, and housing conditions emerged as key contributors to optimal growth and development. The findings emphasize the need for integrated, environment-focused child health interventions tailored to both rural and urban communities.
Prevalence and Determinants of Nutritional Deficiencies among Children Aged 2–5 Years in Selected Areas of Lucknow
BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY: Nutritional deficiency is most widespread affecting health of children’s due to unhygienic food practices; lack of money, traditional beliefs and inappropriate diet are resulting in malnutrition. Despite governmental efforts to address nutritional deficiencies through schemes and programs, such as food fortification and nutritional education, the problem persists. The prevalence rates of undernutrition and anemia among children in states like Uttar Pradesh underscore the urgency of effective interventions. By addressing the root causes of malnutrition and implementing evidence-based strategies, we can improve the health outcomes and well-being of children, laying the foundation for a healthier future generation. There is a need to integrate readily available nationwide data to reach any denouement and understand the role of fortification of foods to combat micronutrient deficiency for making stronger and age specific recommendations. The aim of the study is to determine the prevalence of micro nutritional deficiencies six preventable micro nutritional deficiencies (vitamin A, vitaminB12, vitamin D, iron, iodine and folic acid) among children under five years old in specific areas of Lucknow, as well as to identify the factors that predispose them to these deficiencies. MATERIALS & METHODS: Quantitative research approach was adapted for this study. Descriptive research design was used to assess the prevalence of nutritional deficiency with diet plan. The population under study comprises children aged 2 to 5 years. The sample size comprises of 100 children, aged between 2 and 5 years from the Mohanlalganj area of Lucknow. Non-probability convenience sampling technique was used to select the samples. In this study, the researcher utilized three tools to collect data from the samples: Tool 1: Demographical data Tool 2: Structured questionnaire method is used to assess the pre-disposing factors of nutritional deficiency Tool 3: Modified recommended dietary allowances (RDA) for children according to ICMR to assess the prevalence of nutritional deficiency through diet plan. The collected data was analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics, aligning with the study's objectives and hypotheses. RESULTS: Regarding the prevalence of nutritional deficiency, significant findings emerged. The majority (47%) of 2-3-year-old children showed deficiencies according to recommended daily allowances. Male children (55%) exhibited higher deficiencies compared to females. Hindu children (77%) and those from joint families (61%) also displayed higher deficiency rates. Furthermore, rural areas (70%) showed a higher prevalence of deficiencies compared to urban areas. the birth order of the baby emerges as a significant predisposing factor associated with iron deficiency in children under the age of five. Additionally, the number of children in the family, the age at which breastfeeding ceases, and the spacing between childbirths are all found to be significant factors related to energy deficiency. Furthermore, the occupation of the mother demonstrates statistical significance in relation to protein deficiency at a p-value of 0.05. However, the analysis indicates that all other identified predisposing factors for nutritional deficiency do not reach significance at the 0.05 level. These findings underscore the multifaceted nature of nutritional deficiencies in young children and highlight the importance of considering various factors in preventive and intervention strategies. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of malnutrition is still significant despite the implementation of a number of national nutrition programs, including ICDS, POSHAN Abhiyaan, food fortification initiatives, and vitamin supplementation programs. Preventable micronutrient deficiencies continue to be a significant public health concern. The results of this study indicate that better implementation, community involvement, and ongoing monitoring are necessary to augment current programs. To achieve long-lasting changes in child nutrition, nutrition education, dietary variety, and behavior change communication strategies must be integrated.
Community Beliefs and Misconceptions Regarding Mental Illness: A Rural–Urban Comparison
BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY: In rural communities, mental illness is often associated with supernatural causes or moral weakness, leading individuals to seek help from faith healers rather than health professionals [18]. In urban settings, although people may recognize mental illness as a medical condition, fear of discrimination and social judgment continues to hinder timely help-seeking [19]. For nurses and other healthcare professionals, understanding prevailing community beliefs is essential. Identifying specific myths and misconceptions can help in designing targeted educational materials that are culturally appropriate and context-specific. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study is to assess and compare the knowledge regarding myths and misconceptions about mental illness among adults in selected rural and urban communities. MATERIALS & METHODS: Study was conducted in selected rural and urban communities of Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. The population included adults aged 18 years and above residing in selected rural and urban areas. A total of 60 participants were selected, 30 each from rural and 30 from urban communities. Stratified random sampling was adapted to select the samples. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze the demographic characteristic of participants. Fisher’s Exact Test and odds ratios (OR) were used to compare the frequency of myth-related beliefs about mental illness between rural and urban respondents. RESULTS: Rural adults were more than five times more likely to support the idea that mental disease results from personal weakness (OR = 5.09), even though this difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.080). Adults living in rural areas were more likely to think that mental health issues are uncommon or not significant (OR = 7.25). “People with mental illness are violent and dangerous” was more likely to be endorsed by urban adults (OR = 0.33; p = 0.095).Rural respondents were more likely to support the idea that mental illness is a curse brought on by transgressions from a previous life (OR = 3.06). Respondents from rural areas were more likely to concur that discussing mental health issues brings shame or misfortune (OR = 3.00). The statement “Medication is the only treatment for mental illness” was somewhat more common among respondents from rural areas (OR = 1.40), but the difference was not statistically significant. The only statement that showed a statistically significant rural-urban difference was “Children and adolescents do not experience mental illness” (p = 0.013; OR = 4.69). CONCLUSION: Overall, the study underscores the urgent need for targeted mental health awareness programs, especially in rural communities, focusing on correcting myths, reducing stigma, and promoting a bio psychosocial understanding of mental illness. Community-based education, school mental health programs, and culturally sensitive awareness campaigns can play a key role in improving knowledge and attitudes. Addressing these misconceptions is essential for encouraging early help-seeking, improving treatment acceptance, and ultimately strengthening mental health outcomes across both rural and urban populations.
Knowledge of the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative among Staff Nurses: A Descriptive Study in Lucknow
BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY: Hospitals adhering to BFHI standards consistently report improved breastfeeding initiation rates, higher exclusive breastfeeding prevalence, and longer breastfeeding duration [15]. Despite its proven effectiveness, global implementation of BFHI has been uneven. Several evaluations have highlighted challenges related to inadequate workforce training, insufficient institutional commitment, high staff turnover, and lack of ongoing monitoring mechanisms [15,16]. Nurse’s knowledge and competence are critical determinants of successful BFHI implementation and maternal confidence in breastfeeding. The present study was therefore conducted to assess the level of knowledge regarding BFHI among staff nurses working in selected hospitals of Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, and to examine its association with selected demographic and professional variables. MATERIALS & METHODS: Descriptive research approach was adapted for this study. The study was conducted in selected hospital of Lucknow. The 60 staff nurses who were working in maternity, obstetric or neonatal care units with at least 6 months of experience in selected hospital and who are willing to participate in the study were selected as samples for this study. A non-probability purposive sampling technique will be used to select 60 staff nurses from the chosen hospitals. RESULTS: The majority of staff nurses, 50%, scored between 9 and 17, indicating moderate knowledge.33.3% of nurses showed adequate knowledge, with their scores falling between 18 and 35, suggesting a higher level of understanding. Another 20% of staff nurses had scored below 8, reflecting poor or inadequate knowledge. The mean knowledge score was 16.7% with a standard deviation of 7.86, indicating a moderate level of overall knowledge with clear differences among participants. The results revealed that a demographic variable such as age, Gender and Previous Training Related to BFHI shows significant association with their knowledge level. Other variables such as Highest Level of Nursing Education of the staff nurses, Years of Experience and Work Experience in maternal and neonatal care hospital show no significant association with their knowledge level. CONCLUSION: The study showed that nurses in the selected hospitals of Lucknow had a moderate level of knowledge about the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI). Knowledge levels were not affected by education level in nursing, years of experience, or previous work in maternal and neonatal care. However, younger age, gender, and especially attending BFHI-specific training were linked to higher knowledge. This highlights that structured training programs play a key role in improving nurses’ understanding of BFHI and should be emphasized to ensure better implementation in hospitals.
Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI), Breastfeeding Practices, Staff Nurses, Knowledge Assessment, BFHI Training, Maternal and Neonatal Care