Attitudes and educational practices of obstetric providers regarding infant hepatitis B vaccination.

Abstract

To survey the current knowledge, attitudes, and practices of obstetric providers regarding the education of pregnant women about infant hepatitis B vaccination. A questionnaire was mailed to 264 physicians providing obstetric services in San Francisco. Of these, 113 were confirmed to be providing prenatal care. Seventy-six obstetric providers returned completed questionnaires. Among eligible respondents, 79% believed that hepatitis B vaccine should be administered to all infants at birth, and 92% believed that it is feasible to educate all expectant mothers about infant hepatitis B vaccination. However, only 53% of respondents provided such education to all their pregnant patients. Only 23% provided education about other routine childhood immunizations. Obstetric providers in San Francisco are willing to educate pregnant patients about hepatitis B vaccination but are not always doing so. Providing education in a consistent manner may improve infant hepatitis B vaccination rates and may increase coverage with other childhood vaccines.