Utilization Of IEC By Middle Level Health Personnel In The Implementation Of National Nutrition Programmes

Abstract

Research question: Extent of utilization of the information, Education and Communication (IEC) components in the implementation of national nutrition programmes by middle level health personnel. Objectives: (i) To assess the knowledge of paramedics with regard to nutrition concepts and programmes and also (ii) to find out the current level of utilization of IEC inputs in the delivery of nutrition programmes. Study design: Cross- sectional, questionnaire survey. Setting: Regional Training Centres for Male and Female Health Workers located in the State of Andha Pradesh, India. Sample size: A total of 211 in â€" service trainees. Participants: Multipurpose Health Assistants (Male an Female), Multipurpose Health Supervisor (Male and Female) and Multipurpose Health Extension Officers. Study Variables: Socio- economic, health enhancing lifestyles, nutrition knowledge, mass media and small media utilization. Statistical analysis : Percent frequencies and mean scores with standard deviation, correlations. Results: Middle level health personnel scored well in nutrition knowledge. But their utilization of IEC tools in programme implementation and community education was not satisfactory. Use of print and broadcast media to update their nutrition knowledge was poor. A significant correlation was observed among variables like nutrition knowledge, mass media and small media utilization.