Development of guidelines for feeding practices for children aged 2-5 years in Bulawayo province in Zimbabwe

Abstract

Introduction and background Feeding practices are parental-feeding interactions which determine how, when and why children are fed. Poor feeding practices are more significant determinants of malnutrition in children than lack of food. Globally, 20 million children under 5 are malnourished, resulting in morbidity and mortality. Despite food supply strategies and programmes, 92% of all deaths in children under 5 in Zimbabwe are attributed to malnutrition. At the designated hospital, 35% of children aged 2-5 years have malnutrition, and 10% die from malnutrition-related illnesses. Global guidelines for feeding practices in children, such as the ten steps to successful breastfeeding and the baby-friendly hospital initiatives, focus on 0-2 years with scanty information on 2-5 years when it is the age range for rapid growth and development. Aim Develop guidelines for feeding practices for children aged 2- 5 years in Bulawayo province in Zimbabwe. Objectives were to Determine caregiver health literacy regarding current feeding practices for children aged 2-5 years in Bulawayo province in Zimbabwe. Explore stakeholder views regarding feeding practices for children aged 2-5 years. Obtain stakeholder suggestions for guidelines for feeding practices for children aged 2-5 years. Develop guidelines for feeding practices for children aged 2-5 years in Bulawayo province in Zimbabwe. Study design Mixed methods sequential explanatory design. Abstract iv Yevonnie Chauraya 2023 Methods The study was conducted in three phases. Quantitative, a questionnaire was used to collect data on feeding practices used by approximately 260 caregivers of children aged 2-5 years. The statistician assisted with data analysis. Qualitative, consensus meeting to obtain views of 12 stakeholders about current feeding practices and obtain suggestions for the content of a guideline for feeding practices. Integration of the results of the two phases led to the drafting of guideline statements in phase 3. Three experts participated in a Delphi technique to reach a consensus on the final guidelines. Significance of the study. The body of knowledge on feeding practices for children aged 2-5 and research may be improved, reducing morbidity and mortality from malnutrition. Nurses’ care and clinical practice may also be improved.