Mothers’ knowledge and reported practices about their infants undergoing open-heart surgery

Background Congenital heart diseases emerge as the most frequently occurring congenital anomaly, signifying a significant global health concern. Infants experiencing severe congenital heart disease necessitate open-heart surgery during the neonatal phase for their survival. The effective delivery of postoperative and home care by mother careers is a crucial factor in determining a favorable health outcome for infants who have after a cardiac procedure involving an open-heart surgical intervention. Aim The study aimed to assess mothers’ knowledge and reported practices for their infants after open-heart surgery. Study design The present study utilized a descriptive-exploratory research design. Setting The research was carried out at the outpatient clinic for postoperative open-heart surgery. Sample A convenient sample of 60 infants and their mothers who had after open-heart surgeries was included in this study. Tools Three tools were used for data collection: the structured interview questionnaire; the mothers’ knowledge assessment sheet; and the mothers’ reported practices sheet. Results The results of the current study showed that: three-quarters of mothers live in rural areas; two-fifths of the mothers have only primary education; less than two-thirds of the studied infants’ age ranged between 9 and 12 months; the highest percentages of infants were diagnosed with ventricular septal defect; more than half of the mothers had an unsatisfactory total knowledge level, and the majority of the mothers had unsatisfactory total practices level. Conclusion The current study concluded that the studied mothers’ knowledge level was unsatisfactory and, in addition, their reported practice level regarding caring for their infants after open-heart surgery was unsatisfactory, as well. Recommendations An empowerment program directed to mothers to improve their knowledge and practices regarding caring for their infants after open-heart surgery should be encouraged. Nurses’ role in mothers’ and family education should be activated and intensified in perioperative open-heart surgery.