Factors contributing to mixed feeding practices amongst mothers and caregivers of 0-6 months infants at Maloma village, Limpopo province

24^th World Nursing and Healthcare Conference

September 13-15, 2018 | Copenhagen, Denmark

Hilda Shilubane and Eric Mgolozeli

University of Venda, RSA

Scientific Tracks Abstracts: Adv Practice Nurs

Abstract :

The objective of this study is to investigate the perceived factors contributing to mixed feeding practices amongst mothers and caregivers of infants 0-6 months at Maloma village, Sekhukhune district of Limpopo province. A qualitative, descriptive research design was used in this study. The population for this study consisted of mothers and caregivers of infants 0-6 months. Data were collected through semi-structured individual interviews with 14 mothers and caregivers until data saturation was reached. Data were analyzed using eight steps as described by Tesch's open coding. Four themes emerged from the raw data which are: lack of knowledge about safe infant feeding practices; cultural and traditional beliefs; perceptions about the feeding choice and related risks; and poor support system. This study recommends that infant and young child feeding policy should be everybodyâ??s responsibility, and strategies to enhance safe feeding be employed. Full support should be given to new mothers immediately after childbirth to promote exclusive breastfeeding, thereby minimizing the use of formula and mixed feeding.

Biography :

Hilda Shilubane pursued her PhD from Maastricht University, The Netherlands. She is currently an Associate Professor in the Department for Advanced Nursing Science at the University of Venda, Republic of South Africa. She has published more than 25 papers in reputed journals.