KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICE OF BIRTH PREPAREDNESS AND COMPLICATION READINESS AMONG ANTENATAL CARE CLIENT OF MURTALA MUHAMMAD SPECIALIST HOSPITAL KANO, KANO STATE.

Background: Maternal mortality remains a significant public health challenge in Nigeria, necessitating effective strategies for improving maternal and neonatal outcomes. Birth preparedness and complication readiness (BP/CR) are crucial components aimed at ensuring safe childbirth by enabling timely access to skilled care and managing potential complications. This study investigates the knowledge and practices of BP/CR among pregnant women in Kano, Nigeria, and identifies factors influencing their preparedness. Methodology: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 161 pregnant women attending antenatal care at a healthcare facility in Kano. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire that assessed sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge, and practices related to BP/CR. Statistical analysis included descriptive and inferential statistics, utilizing frequency distributions and chi-square tests to explore associations between variables. Results: The findings revealed that 71.4% of the respondents were aware of BP/CR, with 64.6% demonstrating good knowledge of essential components. Practical preparedness varied, with 54.7% having saved money for childbirth, 49.1% arranging transportation to a health facility, and 43.5% identifying a skilled birth attendant. Awareness of danger signs was moderate, with severe vaginal bleeding being the most recognized (82.6%). Factors such as age, parity, education level, and marital status significantly influenced BP/CR knowledge, while parity was notably associated with BP/CR practices. Conclusion: While the overall knowledge of BP/CR among respondents was high, there are significant gaps in practical application, particularly regarding the identification of skilled birth attendants and blood donors. Socio-cultural beliefs, financial constraints, and access to healthcare services emerged as critical barriers to effective preparedness. Enhancing health education, improving access to healthcare, and addressing socio-economic and cultural barriers are essential for strengthening BP/CR practices and improving maternal and neonatal health outcomes in Kano, Nigeria.