Effectiveness of the Home-Based Intervention Program on Mothers’ Knowledge Regarding LBW Baby Care: A Quasi-Experimental Study in Erbil, 2025–2026

Low birth weight (LBW) infants remain at high risk of morbidity and mortality, particularly in low-resource settings where mothers may lack adequate knowledge of essential home care practices. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a home-based intervention program in improving mothers’ knowledge regarding low-birth-weight infant care in Erbil during 2025–2026. This quasi-experimental study was conducted from October 15, 2024, to October 1, 2026, at Rapareen Pediatric Teaching Hospital and through structured home visits in Erbil City, using purposive sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering socio-demographic characteristics and seven maternal knowledge domains: thermoregulation, skin-to-skin contact, breastfeeding, umbilical care, skin care, infection prevention, and danger sign recognition. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26. A total of 72 mothers participated (intervention = 36; control = 36). At baseline, both groups showed comparable knowledge levels (p > 0.05). Following the intervention, the mean overall knowledge score increased significantly in the intervention group (95.17 → 171.17 → 164.38; p < 0.001), whereas the control group demonstrated only modest change (93.31 → 99.83 → 120.11). Significant improvements were observed across all knowledge domains, including thermoregulation, skin-to-skin contact, and infection prevention (all p < 0.001). Effect sizes ranged from 1.19 to 2.92, indicating a large, clinically meaningful impact. The home-based intervention significantly improved mothers’ knowledge of low-birth-weight infant care. Community implementation may reduce complications and improve infant survival outcomes.