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International Journal of Recent Trends in Science and Technology, ISSN 2277-2812 E-ISSN: 2249-8109

Volume 10, Issue 3, April 2014 pp 517-520

Research Article

Parental Knowledge, Attitude and Practices Regarding Fever in Their Children: A Hospital Based Observational Study

Uday C. Rajput¹, Srikanth Kulkarni², Sambhaji S. Wagh³

Academic Editor : Dr. Aher K.R.

Objective: To analyse the understanding of fever, its dangers and treatment practices among parents before consulting doctor. Methods: A questionnaire based interview with parents bringing their febrile children less than 6 years of age to the outpatient department of pediatrics were included in the study. The appropriateness of response to questions was determined on the basis of current medical literature. Results: Hundred parents were included in study. Most parents (84%) consulted a doctor by the 2^nd day of fever and 92% had no idea about normal body temperature. Half of parents knew that fever was a symptom, 21% felt that it was a disease and 63% believed fever would rise without limit. Antipyretic medication was preferred by 51% parents, paracetamol was the most common drug with only 27% used drug in appropriate dose, 51% resorted to sponging and 4% used antibiotics without any prescription. Most common feared complication was convulsion (28%) and 10% felt that fever can cause death. Most common source of information about fever was doctors (59%). Conclusion: Owing to gross misconceptions, parents expect unrealistic complications. Over exaggerated fear and concern about increasing fever warranted use of antipyretics and sponging with inappropriate dosing. It would be advisable to impart the knowledge by general guidelines regarding fever management to the parents.