A Study to Assess the Effectiveness of Demonstration Method on Knowledge Regarding Water Purification Among Homemakers of Selected Rural Areas of District Mandi, HP.

Résumé fourni par la source

Safe drinking water is essential for maintaining health and preventing water borne diseases. The present study aimed to assess knowledge regarding water purification among homemakers and to determine the effectiveness of the demonstration method. A quantitative approach with a quasi-experimental, non-equivalent pre-test post-test control group design was adopted. A total of 60 homemakers were selected by non-probability convenient sampling, with 30 participants in the experimental group and 30 in the control group. Data were collected using a self-structured knowledge questionnaire containing 30 multiple-choice items. A 25-minute demonstration on water purification methods, including boiling, filtration and chlorination, was provided to the experimental group. The mean pre-test knowledge score was 13.40 ± 4.99 in the experimental group and 12.60 ± 4.49 in the control group. After the demonstration method on water purification, the mean post-test score increased to 21.16 ± 4.67 in the experimental group, while the control group had a mean score of 12.26 ± 4.51. The paired t-test for the experimental group was 10.97 with p < 0.001, showing a highly significant improvement. The post-test comparison between groups was also significant (t = 7.50, p < 0.001). A significant association was observed between post- test knowledge scores and Age (χ² = 12.75, df = 6, p = 0.047), Educational status (χ² = 22.7, df = 6, p = 0.001), and family monthly income ( χ² = 20.31, df = 6, p = 0.002) in the experimental group, whereas no significant association was observed in the control group. The findings indicate that the demonstration method was effective in improving knowledge regarding water purification among homemakers.