Knowledge, Health Practices and Nutritional Policies for Gestational Diabetes, Obesity and Maternal Health for Midwifery and Nurses in Allied and District Hospital Faisalabad

Abstract

Background: Diabetes and obesity are serious global health problems that raise serious risks of morbidity and death. As front-line healthcare professionals, nurses and midwives commonly deal with pregnant patients who have gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Though Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices (KAP) have an impact on health-related behaviors, there has been little research on these topics among Pakistani healthcare practitioners. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the knowledge of nurses and midwives in Faisalabad, Pakistan, on metabolic illnesses. Methods: District Hospital and Allied Hospital, two public maternity hospitals in Faisalabad, Punjab, were the sites of this cross-sectional study. A pre-tested, structured questionnaire was utilized to evaluate KAP with reference to maternal health, obesity, and GDM. SPSS Version 21 was used to analyze the data, and the chi-square test was used to look for relationships between categorical variables. Results: In all, 110 midwives and nurses took part in the research. Of those surveyed, two-thirds had a general awareness of diabetes and obesity, and 58.2% had average knowledge. The majority of participants had a favorable opinion of GDM and the prevention of obesity, and 62.7% said they have referred patients to dietitians. Nonetheless, a majority of the individuals failed to complete the required evaluations for GDM and obesity, and there were frequent misunderstandings regarding post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). Conclusion: Although the majority of nurses and midwives were aware of GDM, there were notable gaps in their understanding of post-exposure care. The study emphasizes the need for improved nutritional guidance and instruction on managing obesity and GDM. Enhancing occupational exposure prevention strategies, offering thorough GDM education, and encouraging precise anthropometric and biochemical evaluations are among the recommendations.