Nurses’ perspectives of newborn cord management and susceptibility to cord sepsis at a Regional Hospital in Ghana during COVID pandemic

Background: The global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has been significant, affecting health systems around the world, including in Ghana. Of concern is cord sepsis, which has become a significant problem, especially in developing countries. Given the importance of preventing and treating cord sepsis, nurses play a critical role in early detection, timely intervention, and prevention. Aim: The study explored nurses’ perspectives of newborn cord management and susceptibility to cord sepsis at a Regional Hospital in Ghana. Method: A qualitative descriptive research approach was used, involving semi-structured interviews with fifteen nurses working at a Regional Hospital in Ghana. Nurses were recruited by purposive sampling method. Thematic analysis was employed to analyse data. Result: Analysis of the data revealed three themes including awareness and knowledge of cord sepsis, management of cord sepsis and prevention of cord sepsis. While nurses had a good understanding of umbilical cord sepsis and its clinical manifestations, their attitudes toward prevention and management were suboptimal. Conclusion: Ongoing educational programs are needed to increase the knowledge and understanding of nurses, mothers and caregivers about the management of cord sepsis. This includes staying current on best practices and WHO guidelines for cord care. It is important to implement comprehensive infection control protocols. Nurses should provide all caregivers, including grandmothers, with clear instructions and guidance on infection control measures. These measures are critical to keeping newborns safe and preventing cord sepsis, especially during and after COVID-19 pandemic.