The Impact of Nursing Care Intervention Program on Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Influence Personal Hygiene Behaviours Towards Pediculosis Capitis among Orphaned Children in Malaysia: A Quasi-Experimental Study

Abstract

Pediculosis capitis (head lice infestation) remains a common public health issue among institutionalized children, linked to poor hygiene and limited preventive education. However, research in Malaysia remains limited, particularly in terms of evidence-based intervention design, longitudinal follow-up, and comprehensive evaluations of program outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a nursing care intervention program in improving the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of orphans regarding the prevention of Pediculosis capitis and personal hygiene. A quasi-experimental pre-test and post-test design was conducted among 61 orphans aged 12–17 years at Darul Kifayah, Selangor, Malaysia. Participants completed a validated KAP questionnaire before and after attending a nursing care intervention program that included health education sessions, practical demonstrations, and interactive discussions. Data were collected from November 2022 to February 2023 using a universal sampling method. Statistical analysis was performed using paired t-tests and ANOVA at a significance level of p < 0.05. Post-intervention analysis revealed significant improvements in knowledge (p < 0.001), attitude (p < 0.001), and practice (p < 0.001) scores compared to the pre-intervention scores. The nursing care intervention effectively enhanced the orphans’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to Pediculosis capitis prevention. Incorporating regular health education and preventive nursing care programs into orphanage care systems can reduce infestation rates and promote better personal hygiene practices among institutionalized children.