Evaluation of knowledge, attitudes, and practices of family physicians working in Samsun province regarding medication use in breastfeeding mothers

ABSTRACT EVALUATION OF KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDES, AND PRACTICES OF FAMILY PHYSICIANS WORKING IN SAMSUN PROVINCE REGARDING MEDICATION USE IN BREASTFEEDING MOTHERS Objective: This study was conducted to evaluate the knowledge levels, attitudes, and clinical practices of family physicians working in Samsun province regarding medication use in breastfeeding mothers. Material and Methods: This descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted with 220 family physicians working in Family Health Centers in Samsun province. Data were collected using a questionnaire querying physicians' sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge levels (10-item test), attitudes, self-efficacy, and practices. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square, ANOVA, Correlation, and Logistic Regression analysis were used for statistical analysis (p<0.05). Results: The mean age of the participants was 43.4 ± 7.8 years; 60.5% were male, and 50.5% were general practitioners. The mean knowledge test score was found to be 5.9 ± 2.0 (59% success). Significant knowledge gaps were identified, particularly in critical areas such as "unsafe analgesic" (Aspirin) (70.0% incorrect), "preferred antiepileptic drug" (72.3% incorrect), and "safe antidepressant" (51.4% incorrect). 61.4% of physicians had never heard of evidence-based databases like LactMed®. 45.4% of physicians (sometimes/frequently/always) recommend mothers to interrupt breastfeeding when starting medication. The knowledge scores of family medicine specialists and SAHU assistants were found to be statistically significantly higher than those of general practitioners (p=0.017). The strongest predictors of having a high knowledge level were specialist status (Specialist OR=3.92) and self-efficacy score (OR=2.76). Gender (p=0.41) and working region (p=0.896) were not found to have a significant effect on knowledge level. Conclusion: The knowledge level of family physicians in Samsun province regarding medication use during lactation is moderate and open to improvement, especially in critical drug classes. Knowledge level was found to be positively associated with specialist training and physician's self-confidence (self-efficacy). The awareness and use of reliable information sources (e.g., LactMed®) should be increased, and continuing education programs for physicians should be organized.