author(s)
Amreenara Barge, Meenaxi Kumbar and Siddusing S Hajeri

abstract
Maternal and newborn care practices, especially breastfeeding, cord care, and thermoregulation, are crucial for neonatal survival ^{[1, 2]} inadequate knowledge and poor practices in these areas contribute significantly to neonatal morbidity and mortality in India ^[3]. So this study was aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) of primipara mothers regarding breastfeeding, cord care, and thermoregulation, and to develop an information booklet for improved maternal and newborn care. The descriptive cross-sectional design employed and structured knowledge questionnaires, observation checklist and attitude scale were used to collect data among 50 primipara mothers admitted in Taluka General Hospital, Gokak, Belagavi District. The result showed that among the participants, 38% had inadequate knowledge, 52% moderate knowledge, and only 10% adequate knowledge regarding breastfeeding, cord care, and thermoregulation. Attitudes were more favorable: 68% had favorable attitudes, 24% neutral, and 8% unfavorable. In practice, 41% of mothers demonstrated poor practices, 47% moderate and only 12% good practices. Education was significantly associated with knowledge (p<0.05), while age was significantly associated with practice (p<0.05). No significant association was found with occupation or residence. The study highlights the need for structured health education programs and the provision of user-friendly educational booklets to bridge the gap between knowledge and practice. Improved maternal awareness is expected to reduce neonatal risks and promote healthier outcomes.