Effect of an educational program on mothers' reported practice regarding care of their children with vitamin deficiencies

Abstract

Abstract Background Vitamin deficiencies remain significant public health concerns that adversely affect children’s growth and development. Mothers, as primary caregivers, play a key role in shaping their children’s health practices. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of an educational program on mothers’ reported practice regarding care of their children with vitamin deficiencies. Methods A quasi-experimental study was conducted at the nutrition clinic of the Children’s Hospital, Ain Shams University. A purposive sample of 50 mothers of children diagnosed with vitamin deficiencies (42 vitamin D deficiency, 6 vitamin A deficiency, and 2 vitamin C deficiency) was included. A structured educational program was delivered to mothers, and maternal reported practices were assessed before and after the intervention. Results There was a statistically significant improvement ( p < 0.001) in the total reported practice scores of mothers following the educational program, indicating enhanced care practices related to managing their children’s vitamin needs. Conclusion the structured educational program was effectively improved mothers’ reported practices regarding care of their children with vitamin deficiencies, emphasizing the importance of mother education and educational intervention in addressing childhood nutritional deficiencies. Enhancing their knowledge and practices is essential in addressing these nutritional deficiencies. Moreover, the findings of this study could be applied to improve mothers’ roles in the physical, psychological, and social aspects of child care.