Global Journal of Biology, Agriculture & Health Sciences

Abstract

Knowledge, Attitudes and Perceptions of Nursing Mothers towards Recycling and Safe Disposal of Diapers in Izayi Park, Zvishavane Community in Zimbabwe

Nyomombe Tedius*, Mukono Tadiwanashe, Jaravaza Moleen T and Gondongwe Climon M

The research intended to establish the knowledge, attitudes and perceptions of nursing mothers towards recycling and safe disposal of diapers in Izayi park Zvishavane community in Zimbabwe. The research also sought to establish why nursing mothers indiscriminately dump used diapers without washing them. Questionnaires were distributed to a sample of nursing mothers in the Izayi community. Some key informant interviews were held with the environmental health officers, district hospital, community health directors and influential health and environmental practitioners in the study area. Observations and first-hand information was also used in addition to the questionnaires and interviews. The results seemed to reflect that most nursing mothers preferred disposable diapers to traditional cloth napkins mostly because of their convenience and cheap prices. Disposable diapers do not require washing. They do not require regular changing, some experts also indicated that diapers save time and their novelty brings a sense of elitism and modernization. This research showed that most nursing mothers did not receive any education of training on safe disposal of pampers. Research also noted that some users of diapers complained about skin disorders and also lack of proper disposal channels. 90% of the participating mothers seemed to be against the idea of having their waste recycled.

Published Date: 2023-01-19; Received Date: 2022-07-13