KNOWLEDGE OF MOTHERS OF NEWBORNS ABOUT BIOLOGICAL NEWBORN SCREENING

Abstract

Objective: to evaluate the level of knowledge of mothers of newborns about biological neonatal screening. Method: a descriptive exploratory study with a quantitative approach, developed in the Rooming-in and Kangaroo Rooms of the Integrated University Health Center, located in the Sanitary District II of the city of Recife, PE, with reference to the State Health System in Pregnancy Care in Alto. Data were collected in interviews with 109 postpartum women, using a script with pre-defined variables, submitted to statistical analysis. Results: there  was a predominance (84.40%) of participants who did not know the best time to perform the heel prick test; 55.04% reported having been instructed in the prenatal period and/or after delivery, 92.66% knew that the test was mandatory. 59.63% knew the purpose of the test. Conclusion: It is emphasized that mothers' knowledge about biological neonatal screening is essential for greater adherence to the test, highlighting the role of health professionals in educational actions to raise awareness of mothers in adhering to this procedure.