IMPACT OF DELAYED IMMUNIZATION ON CHILDMORBIDITY: CHALLENGES FOR PAEDIATRIC NURSINGPRACTICE

Abstract

Delayed and incomplete immunization remains a significant contributor to increased child morbidity, particularly in low and middle income settings where healthcare access, parental awareness, and follow up systems are limited. Failure to adhere to recommended vaccination schedules exposes children to preventable infectious diseases such as Measles, Diphtheria, and Pertussis, leading to higher rates of hospitalization, complications, and mortality. Pediatric nursing practice plays a critical role in addressing these gaps through education, early identification of missed doses, and implementation of reminder and tracking systems. Nurses act as frontline healthcare providers who can influence parental attitudes, improve health literacy, and ensure continuity of care through community engagement and follow up interventions. However, challenges such as workload burden, inadequate training in immunization counseling, and lack of structured monitoring systems limit the effectiveness of nursing interventions. Addressing these barriers requires strengthening nursing competencies, integrating digital health solutions, and promoting family centered care approaches. Enhancing the role of pediatric nurses in immunization programs can significantly reduce disease burden and improve child health outcomes by ensuring timely and complete vaccination coverage.