Conference presentation
Evaluation of Baby Help, an illness assessment tool for Indigenous infants
2009 University Research Conference Program Book, p.8
USC Research Conference, 2009 (Sunshine Coast, Australia, 09-Nov-2009)
University of the Sunshine Coast
2009
Abstract
Overall mortality for Indigenous infants is almost three times that of the non-Indigenous population. In 2007-08 Maternity Child Health and Safety Branch implemented an illness assessment tool aimed at parents and carers of Indigenous infants aged 0-2 years. This study aimed to evaluate the process Queensland Health used to implement 'Baby Help' and the effectiveness of this tool, as interpreted by the Indigenous Child Health Workers (ICHW), for the wider community. Study results will determine if and how the utilisation of an infant illness assessment booklet has supported the ICHW role. Outcomes include whether utilisation of 'Baby Help' resulted in improved caregiver knowledge and practice relating to recognition, treatment and referral of illness in infants as perceived by the ICHW. A pre-test post-test cross-sectional survey design was used in a sample of ICHWs from across Queensland to evaluate current knowledge and practice relating to infant illness management. Focus groups were conducted to obtain further practice information and identify support systems and resources that existed within work environments. 'Baby Help' was presented during an information session that outlined clinical approaches in recognition of common and serious infant illnesses. Three months post distribution of Baby Help, a post test together with a qualitative evaluation of tool usefulness was conducted. Identification of health promotion tools that are appropriate and effective support for the role of the ICHW will ultimately assist their role within the Indigenous community. Elements relating to the implementation of the 'Baby Help' tool will inform future health promotion activities within this population.
Details
- Title
- Evaluation of Baby Help, an illness assessment tool for Indigenous infants
- Authors
- Karen Watson (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast - Faculty of Science, Health and Education
- Publication details
- 2009 University Research Conference Program Book, p.8
- Conference details
- USC Research Conference, 2009 (Sunshine Coast, Australia, 09-Nov-2009)
- Publisher
- University of the Sunshine Coast
- Date published
- 2009
- Organisation Unit
- School of Health - Nursing; University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland; School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine - Legacy
- Language
- English
- Record Identifier
- 99448910302621
- Output Type
- Conference presentation
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