Neonatal Care Knowledge and Practices among New Mothers in Huruma Estate, Eldoret, Kenya

Infant mortality continues to pose a major global public health concern, particularly because close to 40% of deaths among children under five occur during the neonatal period, within the first month after birth. In many developing nations, inadequate access to skilled healthcare guidance during pregnancy and after delivery significantly contributes to these deaths. This study investigated maternal knowledge and newborn care practices among women living in Huruma Estate, Eldoret, a densely populated informal settlement with low per-capita income in Kenya. A community-based cross-sectional research design was adopted to collect both qualitative and quantitative data. Using systematic sampling, 182 women aged between 18 and 49 years were selected to participate in the study. Data collection methods included structured questionnaires, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews, while descriptive analysis was conducted using MS Excel. The findings revealed that 96% of respondents attended antenatal clinics during pregnancy, and 77.5% independently decided where to deliver. Among mothers who gave birth in health facilities, 73% reported that newborns were immediately dried and wrapped after delivery. Breastfeeding initiation varied across respondents, although 24.2% admitted giving infants fluids other than breast milk within the first 28 days after birth. Compliance with immunization schedules and proper umbilical cord care practices was notably high. Based on these findings, the study recommends continuous maternal education and strengthened postpartum newborn care interventions in informal settlements.