Effectiveness of Hands-on skill training programmes for the prevention and management of pneumonia in under-five children: A systematic review

Background: Pneumonia remains one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality among under-five children in low- and middle-income countries, including India. Strengthening the knowledge and competencies of primary caregivers through structured skill-based training may contribute significantly to reducing this burden. Objective: To systematically review and synthesise the available evidence on the effectiveness of hands-on skill training programmes for primary caregivers in preventing and managing pneumonia in under-five children, with special reference to community-based interventions in Delhi NCR. Methods: A systematic search of electronic databases (PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, and Google Scholar) was conducted for studies published between 2005 and 2024. Keywords included “pneumonia,” “under-five children,” “primary caregivers,” “skill training,” “knowledge,” “competency,” and “India.” Studies were screened, appraised using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist, and data were synthesised narratively. Results: Eleven studies met the inclusion criteria. Evidence suggests that structured hands-on training significantly improves caregivers’ knowledge of pneumonia symptoms, early care-seeking, and home-based management practices. Programmes with practical demonstrations, peer learning, and follow-up support showed higher effectiveness compared to didactic sessions alone. Conclusion: Hands-on skill training programmes are effective in enhancing the knowledge and competencies of primary caregivers regarding pneumonia prevention and management in under-five children.