Effectiveness of the IMNCI Training Module on Knowledge Regarding Assessment and Treatment of Under-Five Children Among Nursing Students

Abstract

The Integrated Management of Neonatal and Childhood Illnesses (IMNCI) is a comprehensive strategy developed by WHO and UNICEF to address major causes of childhood mortality. Training nursing students in IMNCI is essential to prepare them for quality paediatric care. AIM: To evaluate the effectiveness of the Integrated Management of Neonatal and Childhood Illnesses (IMNCI) training module in improving the knowledge of nursing students regarding the assessment and treatment of under-five children. Methods: A quasi-experimental pre-test and post-test design was employed to assess the effectiveness of the IMNCI training module among 100 nursing students. Participants included students from B.Sc. Nursing 6th Semester, Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing, and M.Sc. Nursing 1st Year, selected through purposive sampling. A structured questionnaire was used to assess knowledge before and after a six-day (40-hour) IMNCI training conducted by certified trainers. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and paired t-test to evaluate knowledge improvement. Chi-square test was applied to assess associations between demographic variables and knowledge scores. Results: Out of 100 nursing students, the study found a significant improvement in knowledge levels after IMNCI training. Pre-test data showed that only 20% of students had adequate knowledge, while 30% had inadequate and 50% had moderate knowledge. Post-training, 64% achieved adequate knowledge, with a decline in inadequate knowledge to just 8%. The paired t-test analysis revealed a statistically significant improvement in mean knowledge scores from 46.96 ± 9.08 (pre-test) to 68.22 ± 9.54 (post-test), with a t-value of 15.15 and p < 0.001, indicating that the IMNCI training module was highly effective in enhancing the students’ knowledge regarding the assessment and treatment of under-five children. Conclusion: The IMNCI training module significantly improved the knowledge of nursing students. Integrating IMNCI into the undergraduate and postgraduate nursing curriculum is recommended to strengthen child health services.