Factors predicting preventive behaviors against COVID-19 infection among pregnant women at Maharat Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital

Abstract

 This study aimed to identify the factors predicting of COVID-19 preventive behaviors among pregnant women. Sample consisted of 143 pregnant women attending prenatal care at Maharat Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital, Nakhon Ratchasima, Northeastern Thailand. They were recruited using a consecutive sampling technique. Data collection involved self-administered questionnaires comprising: 1 ) a demographic questionnaire, 2) an assessment form of the Health Belief Model related to COVID-19 prevention, 3) an assessment form for perceived self-efficacy to prevent disease and awareness of warning triggers, 4 ) an assessment form for perceived self-efficacy to prevent COVID-19 infection, and 5) an assessment form for COVID-19 preventive behaviors. These instruments had been examined for validity by experts and tested for reliability with Cronbach's alpha coefficients of 0.80, 0.90, 0.80, and 0.80, respectively.

Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and stepwise multiple regression. The variables were entered into the equation using a stepwise method. The findings revealed that COVID-19 preventive behaviors among the participants were at a good level (=4.06 SD±0.59), with 81.2% adherence. Self-efficacy in COVID-19 prevention and awareness of warning triggers or family support, were significant predictors, accounting for 33% of the variance in preventive behaviors (Adjusted =0.33, p<0.01). The results suggested that midwives should promote self-efficacy in preventing COVID-19 infection and encourage family participation in promoting awareness of warning triggers or supporting behaviors to prevent COVID-19 infection in pregnant women.