Hepatitis B has a special importance when diagnosed in pregnant women because of possibility to protect baby
from infection. The aim of this study was to evaluate hepatitis B knowledge level of midwifes who follow up most
of the pregnant women in the region of Malatya.
In this cross-sectional study, 195 midwifes working in 24 primary health unites in the region of Malatya were
included and required to answer the questionnaire form themselves. The questionnaire results were analyzed on a
computer based statistical program.
In about transmission route of hepatitis B, 27% and 40% midwifes have wrong answers such as hepatitis may be
transmissible by spoons and plates and by kissing, respectively. Midwifes have an idea in ratio of 72% like that
hepatitis B may convert to hepatitis C. Eighty-six percentage of midwifes have a right knowledge about protection
of baby who was burn from a mother with hepatitis B, however 49% of midwifes answered wrongly such as
hepatitis B vaccination in second month prevent this baby. Fifty-three (28%) midwifes do not think that all
pregnant woman should be tested for hepatitis B. There was not a statistical significance between time of service
and educational degree with the ratio of right answers. Twenty percent of midwifes did not know their hepatitis
condition and 3.3% of them reported themselves as hepatitis B carrier.
As conclusions, the knowledge level about hepatitis B among midwifes in our region is not sufficient. The babies
have a risk about acquiring the infection. Pre and postgraduate education should be increased about this subject
because of vertical transmission is still important route in our country.
Key Words: Hepatitis B, Knowledge Level, Midwives
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