Prevalence of essential newborn care practices and its associated factors among infants whose mother attends postnatal clinics in Kilimanjaro region, Tanzania

Background: Newborn health is a critical public health concern, with essential newborn care (ENC) practices proven to reduce neonatal mortality. Despite its effectiveness, neonatal deaths remain high, especially in low-income countries like Tanzania, where neonatal infections, birth asphyxia, and preterm complications are the leading causes of death. This study aims to assess the prevalence of ENC practices and identify factors influencing their adoption in Kilimanjaro Region, Tanzania in order to improve newborn health outcomes.

Methods: A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted from 13^th July to 3^rd August, 2021, in Kilimanjaro Region, Tanzania, focusing on two councils: Moshi Municipal and Moshi District. The study included women attending postnatal clinics with infants under three months at selected health facilities. A total of 351 women participated, with convenience sampling used to select eligible participants. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, and the study assessed essential newborn care practices, including breastfeeding, thermal care, and cord care. Data were analyzed using SPSS, with descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression to identify factors associated with newborn care practices. Ethical approval was granted, and informed consent was obtained from all participants. 

Results: This study involved 351 participants with a mean age of 26.6 years, primarily married women with 1 to 3 number of pregnancies. Most attended antenatal care and delivered at health facility. Overall, 72.4% of newborns received all six essential newborn care practices. Postnatal care attendance, newborn general assessments, and counseling on keeping the baby warm were significantly associated with better essential newborn care. 

Conclusion: This study found 77.2% of newborns received essential care practices, showing overall positive adherence, though improvements are needed. While practices like drying, clean wrapping, and delayed bathing were well followed, skin-to-skin contact and early breastfeeding initiation were less common. These results highlight the need for better postnatal care training and adherence to protocols.