Factors that Contributing to the Implementation of Kangaroo Mother Care by Midwives in Kirkuk City Hospitals

Abstract

Background: Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) is an evidence-based technique that significantly decreases newborn mortality and morbidity, especially in LBW and preterm newborns. Direct skin-to-skin contact between the mother or caregiver and the baby is made possible by this efficient, straightforward, culturally acceptable, and emotionally helpful newborn care technique. Despite its proven effectiveness, the implementation of the KMC is influenced by several institutional factors, such as the availability of resources, infrastructure, and the existence of explicit clinical protocols and standards. Aim: This study aimed to identify the factors contributing to the implementation of Kangaroo Mother Care among nurses and midwives in hospitals in Kirkuk City.Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out. The study was carried out in Kirkuk City's hospitals. The method employed was non-probability purposive sampling. 163 nurses and midwives participated in the study. A standardized questionnaire that was self-administered was used to gather data. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were used in the analysis of the data using SPSS version 26.Results: The results indicate the important factors that facilitate the successful utilization of KMC. One of the most consistently rated items was mentorship and supervision by experienced clinicians (95.7%). Other key factors mentioned were administrative support (91.4%), in-service training (91.4%), and the personal belief in KMC's clinical value on the part of staff (91.4%). In addition, a moderate positive association between nurse midwives’ knowledge and perceiving contributing factors in KMC (r = .491, P =.000). Conclusion: The study concludes that there are contributing factors. The factors mentioned were administrative support, in-service training, and the personal belief in KMC's clinical value on the part of staff. The findings also underscore structural factors and incorporating KMC into hospital policies as important elements for successful implementation.