Conhecimento sobre alimentação infantil dos agentes comunitários de saúde de uma região de saúde no estado da Paraíba

Abstract

The knowledge of the Community Health Agent regarding infant feeding may influence breastfeeding practices. The present study aimed to identify the level of knowledge about infant feeding of community health agents who work in the Primary Care in the municipalities of the 4th Health Region of the state of Paraíba and its association with demographic and professional characteristics. This is a cross-sectional study, in which a validated, adapted questionnaire was applied to verify their level of knowledge regarding infant feeding. This level was expressed through a score of 0-21. The t-test for independent samples was used to verify differences in the Mean ± Standard Deviation of the level of knowledge according to demographic and professional profiles. Community health agents have shown a satisfactory level of knowledge about exclusive breastfeeding. Limited knowledge was evidenced in relation to predominant breastfeeding, the adequate form of storage and supply of expressed breast milk, the introduction of complementary foods from 6 months onwards, and the age at which the child should be supplemented with vitamin A. The level of knowledge of community health agents was 11.9 ± 2.86, with no significant differences according to demographic and professional profiles. It is concluded that their level of knowledge about infant feeding is adequate in relation to exclusive breastfeeding, but inadequate for predominant breastfeeding and complementary feeding.