ENVIRONMENTAL SANITATION DESCRIPTION FOR MOTHERS WITH TODDLERS IN RW 08 CIBEREUM, CIMAHI CITY

Abstract

The background of this research highlights that the health of infants and toddlers is a critical aspect that requires significant attention, as this phase is characterized by rapid physical and mental growth and development. Children under the age of five are particularly vulnerable to health issues, such as infections and diseases, if they do not receive adequate care and hygiene. Poor sanitation is one of the factors that increases the risk of illness.

This study aims to describe the environmental sanitation of mothers with toddlers in RW 08 using a quantitative descriptive observational research design. The variables examined include the environmental sanitation of mothers with toddlers in RW 08, with univariate data analysis conducted for categorical data through frequency distribution. Data were collected via questionnaires completed by mothers with toddlers in RW 08, Cibeureum Village, which were then analyzed to provide insights into their environmental sanitation. From a population of 150 mothers with toddlers in RW 08, Cibeureum, Cimahi City, a sample of 107 individuals was obtained using Slovin's formula and accidental sampling technique. The findings of this research are expected to offer effective insights into the environmental sanitation of mothers with toddlers, which is closely related to the health of their children.

The research findings indicate that in the first pillar of sanitation, which pertains to open defecation practices, the majority of respondents exhibited negative attitudes, with 16 respondents (85.3%) demonstrating poor practices. Conversely, in the second pillar related to handwashing with soap, a significant portion of respondents displayed positive behavior, as 63 respondents (57.8%) practiced proper handwashing techniques. However, in the third pillar concerning the management of drinking water and household food, the majority of respondents again showed negative attitudes, totaling 85 respondents (78.0%). Similarly, in the fourth pillar regarding household waste management, 71 respondents (65.1%) exhibited inadequate attitudes, and in the fifth pillar related to the management of household liquid waste, nearly all respondents, amounting to 101 individuals (92.7%), demonstrated negative attitudes. The recommendation from this study is the need to develop Health Education programs aimed at altering the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of mothers with young children to prevent instances of stunting.

Keywords: Environmental Sanitation, Toddler Health, STBM