The college of Nursing at Baghdad University discussed the doctoral thesis entitled “The effectiveness of an educational program on mothers’ knowledge regarding feeding behaviors and growth indicators of infants with congenital heart defects” by the student Ahmed Shalash Mohsen Ahmed Shalash Mohsen under the supervision of Assistant Professor Dr. Zaid Wahid Ajil at the College’s Museum Hall.
The thesis aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of an educational program designed to improve mothers’ knowledge regarding proper feeding behaviors and growth indicators in infants with congenital heart defects.
The results of the study showed a significant difference in the knowledge level of mothers who participated in the educational program; their knowledge level increased from “poor and acceptable” before the implementation of the program to “very good” afterwards. In contrast, the control group that did not undergo the program did not show any significant change in the level of knowledge, proving the positive and direct impact of the educational program.
The study recommends that educational programs for mothers should be adopted as an essential part of health care for infants with congenital heart defects. This is in line with the principles of sustainable development, especially SDG 3, which is concerned with ensuring that everyone enjoys healthy lifestyles and well-being at all ages. Empowering mothers with the knowledge and skills to care for their children not only improves health outcomes and reduces infant mortality rates, but also strengthens the family’s ability to provide better care, creating a healthier and more sustainable society in the long run.
