Research proposal sample

Research proposal sample

KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICES OF MOTHERS ON COMPLEMENTARY FEEDING FOR CHILDREN UNDER TWO YEARS AT KATABI MILITARY HOSPITAL YOUNG CHILD CLINIC, WAKISO DISTRICT

ABSTRACT

Stunted growth affects over two million Ugandan children under two years of age. Many mothers lack adequate knowledge about complementary feeding, leading to inappropriate food quality, quantity, frequency, and consistency. This increases children’s susceptibility to infections, delays recovery from illness, and raises mortality rates.

This study assessed mothers’ knowledge and practices regarding complementary feeding for children under two years at Katabi Military Hospital. A cross-sectional descriptive survey design was employed, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods.

Findings revealed that 53.3% (16 respondents) lacked knowledge about complementary feeding. While 90% (27 mothers) practiced complementary feeding, 70% (21 mothers) used bottles, cups, and spoons. Poor socioeconomic status was a significant barrier: 40% (12 mothers) traveled over 4 km to health centers, 37.1% (10 mothers) earned between UGX 50,000–100,000 monthly, and 50% (15 mothers) independently supported complementary feeding.

The study concluded that inadequate knowledge and poor socioeconomic conditions contributed to suboptimal feeding practices, such as bottle use. Limited income and distance from health facilities further hindered access to information and proper feeding tools.

KEY TERMS

• Complementary Feeding: Introduction of additional foods alongside breast milk when breast milk alone becomes insufficient (6–24 months).
• Breastfeeding: Natural method of providing infants essential nutrients for growth.
• Knowledge: Information acquired through learning or experience.
• Practice: Repeated application of an action.
• Perception: Awareness gained through sensory experience.

ABBREVIATIONS

• CBOs: Community-Based Organizations
• KNBS: Kenya National Bureau of Statistics
• MoH: Ministry of Health
• UBOS: Uganda Bureau of Statistics
• UDHS: Uganda Demographic and Health Survey
• UNICEF: United Nations Children’s Fund
• USAID: United States Agency for International Development
• WHO: World Health Organization
• PHNC: Public Health Nurses College
• UNMEB: Uganda Nurses and Midwives Examination Board

CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background

Complementary feeding begins when breast milk no longer meets an infant’s nutritional needs (Sethi, 2017). It is critical for providing energy and nutrients essential for growth (e.g., soybeans, oranges, tomatoes, liver, sweet potatoes). Globally, improper complementary feeding contributes to stunting in children under two (Neufeld et al., 2016).

Malnutrition affects child development, increasing susceptibility to infections and mortality (Apprey, 2015). Globally, 25% of under-five children are underweight, while 100.7 million are stunted (Mercdes et al., 2012). In sub-Saharan Africa, 60% of under-two deaths are linked to poor feeding practices (Meleko et al., 2017).

In Uganda, 40% of under-five children suffer malnutrition due to food insecurity and inadequate healthcare access (Asiki et al., 2016). Despite health education efforts, improper complementary feeding persists in Katabi Military Hospital, exacerbating child morbidity and mortality (Nankumbi et al., 2015).

1.2 Problem Statement

Over two million Ugandan children under two experience stunted growth. Karamoja records the highest acute malnutrition rate (13.1%), with 22.6–75% of children aged 6–23 months affected (USAID, 2010). Despite interventions, mothers at Katabi Military Hospital lack knowledge, leading to poor feeding practices and higher child mortality.

1.3 Purpose of the Study

To assess mothers’ knowledge and practices on complementary feeding to improve feeding methods, reduce malnutrition, and curb stunted growth.

1.4 Specific Objectives

1. Assess mothers’ knowledge of complementary feeding.
2. Examine complementary feeding practices among mothers.
3. Identify socioeconomic factors affecting complementary feeding.

1.5 Research Questions

1. What is the level of mothers’ knowledge about complementary feeding?
2. What complementary feeding practices do mothers employ?
3. What socioeconomic factors hinder proper complementary feeding?

1.6 Justification

• Ministry of Health/NGOs/CBOs: Will use findings to improve funding, programs, and sensitization.
• Researchers: Provides reference for future studies.
• Health Workers & Mothers: Enhances understanding of complementary feeding determinants.
• Researcher: Fulfills diploma in nursing requirements.

Key Improvements:

1. Conciseness: Removed redundancy while preserving key details.
2. Flow: Structured logically for better readability.
3. Academic Tone: Formal yet accessible language.
4. Clarity: Simplified complex terms without losing meaning.