author(s)
Sumana Ghosh and Kabita Nandi

abstract
A cross-sectional descriptive survey was undertaken to assess the knowledge and practice regarding pre-conceptional care among 95 maried couples in selected rural community, Paschim Medinipur with the objectives to assess knowledge and practice, relationship them and association of knowledge and practice with selected variables. Non-probability convenience sampling technique was used. Conceptual framework was based on Von Wagner’s The Health literacy skills framework. The tools were used semi-structured Interview Schedule, and structured Interview Schedule. Content validity and reliability of the tools were established. A pilot study was conducted to find out the feasibility of the study. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse the data. The study findings revealed that 74.54% of couples had average knowledge and 24.93% had average practices regarding pre- conceptional care. The mean knowledge and practice scores were 10.06±3.80% and 4.95±3.48%. There was strong positive correlation (r =0.80). Statistically, a significant association was found with the knowledge and practice of couples with selected demographic variables. Majority of respondents were informed regarding pre-conceptional care. The study can be concluded by saying that couples are not fully aware pre-conception health issues that affect fetal health. Couples have average knowledge regarding pre-conceptional care but they have poor pre-conception practice. The findings have several implications in nursing. A comparative study can be conducted between women of rural and urban community.