A relationship between self-care knowledge and self-care practices on pregnancy induced hypertension (PIH) among women aged 15-49 years with PIH attending antenatal clinic at Harare hospital

Abstract

Pregnancy induced hypertension (PIH) is a gestational hypertensive disorder. It is the commonest unavoidable medical condition encountered in pregnancy, complicating approximately 10% of all pregnancies. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between PIH self-care knowledge and PIH self-care practices in women aged 15 to 49 years with PIH. Orem’s Self-care Model was used to provide a theoretical framework to guide this study. A descriptive correlational study research design was adopted to guide the study. A sample of 78 participants was selected using the convenience sampling technique. The investigator wished to examine the relationship between the PIH self-care knowledge levels the women possessed and their PIH self-care practices. Data was collected through a face to face interview interaction using a structured interview schedule. Descriptive statistics, frequencies, percentage, mean and range were used to analyze the data on the level of PIH self-care knowledge they possessed and the PIH self- care practices done by the women. Inferential statistics, the Pearson’s product-moment correlation co-efficient was used to analyze the relationship between PIH self-care knowledge levels and PIH self-care practices. The major findings of the study showed that the extent of PIH self-care practices was above average for all (78) (100%) participants. Fifty-seven (73.08%) participants demonstrated an above average level of PIH self-care knowledge, whilst only 11 (14.1%) had a level below average. Scores varied, and ranged from 4 to 14.Pearson correlation coefficient showed a non-significant, positive weak association (r= .203, p >0.01) of PIH self-care knowledge and PIH self-care practices. Midwifery practice should therefore reinforce on areas with weak scores of PIH self-care knowledge such as recognition of oliguria and severe headache as danger signs, and the importance of taking correct action when they manifest.