Effectiveness of Structured Health Education on Newborn Care Knowledge Among Primigravida Mothers: A Quasi-Experimental Study at SRM Medical College Hospital & Research Centre"

<title>Abstract</title> <p> Background The neonatal period is the most critical phase of child survival, with preventable conditions such as hypothermia, infections, poor breastfeeding practices, and inadequate hygiene contributing substantially to neonatal morbidity and mortality. Primigravida mothers often lack adequate knowledge and experience regarding essential newborn care. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a structured health education programme on newborn care knowledge among primigravida mothers admitted to SRM Medical College Hospital &amp; Research Centre. Methods A quantitative quasi-experimental one-group pre-test and post-test study was conducted among <bold>100 primigravida mothers</bold> selected through purposive sampling. Baseline knowledge was assessed using a validated 30-item structured questionnaire covering breastfeeding, thermal protection, umbilical cord care, hygiene, immunization, infection prevention, and neonatal danger signs. Participants subsequently received a structured nurse-led health education programme using lectures, demonstrations, audiovisual aids, interactive discussions, and an educational booklet. A post-test was conducted seven days after the intervention. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, paired <italic>t</italic> -tests, and chi-square tests, with statistical significance set at <italic>p</italic>  &lt; 0.05. Results Before the intervention, 70% of participants had inadequate knowledge, while only 5% demonstrated adequate knowledge. After the intervention, 84% achieved adequate knowledge and only 3% remained in the inadequate category. The mean knowledge score increased significantly from <bold>10.85 ± 5.81</bold> to <bold>26.50 ± 3.88</bold> (mean difference = 15.65), demonstrating a highly significant improvement ( <italic>t</italic>  = 29.48, <italic>p</italic>  &lt; 0.001). Significant associations were observed between post-test knowledge and maternal age, educational status, occupation, monthly family income, and family type. Conclusions Structured nurse-led health education effectively improved knowledge regarding essential newborn care among <bold>100 primigravida mothers</bold> . Integrating standardized educational programmes into routine postnatal nursing care can enhance maternal competence, promote evidence-based newborn care practices, and contribute to improved neonatal health outcomes. </p>