Neonatal care in Mount Lebanon hospitals: Knowledge and practice of midwives

IntroductionNeonatal conditions seem to be essential for a healthy child development. No studies were done to evaluate neonatal care in Lebanese hospitals. The objective of this study was to describe knowledge, attitude and practice of midwifes in seven Lebanese hospitals regarding neonatal care.MethodsIn seven hospitals of Mount Lebanon, 44 midwives taking care of 204 term neonates were addressed. Questionnaires and checklists were constructed to evaluate knowledge of midwives and their practice with respective neonates regarding neonatal care.ResultsWe found out that midwives in Mount Lebanon hospitals had acceptable knowledge regarding neonatal care, but the application of this knowledge in practice measures was limited.ConclusionNeonates were thus at risk of hypothermia, physical pain and psychological distress. Neonatal care in Lebanese hospitals should be promoted, taking into account both mother and child benefits.