Mother’s knowledge, attitude and practice regarding prevention and management of diarrhoea in children in Southern Odisha

Abstract

Background: Diarrhoeal infections are the fifth leading cause of death worldwide and continue to take a high toll on child health. The objective of the study was toassess and compare mothers’ knowledge, attitude and practice regarding prevention and management of diarrhoea in children.Methods: A hospital based observational study was carried out in the Department of Paediatrics, M.K.C.G. Medical College. Data collected from mothers by questionnaire method.Results: Diarrhoea is more common in less than 2 years of age with males are affected more than females and more cases are seen from rural areas. Diarrhoeal diseases are more common in the lower educated group and low socioeconomic status families with prevalence of overcrowding. 47% mothers had knowledge about diarrhoea, 52% about the aetiology and 58% about risk factors of diarrhoea. Regarding role of breastfeeding in diarrhoea 48% mothers had good knowledge and regarding adverse effects of bottle feeding 56% mothers were aware. In this study only 34% of mothers were aware of assessment of danger signs and dehydration and 27% about treatment of dehydration. 33% mothers had good knowledge on sanitary latrine and safe drinking water uses in prevention and treatment of diarrhoea. Regarding preparation of ORS only 19% mothers had good knowledge, 65% mothers had average knowledge.Conclusions: Among mothers’ knowledge about diarrhoea along with the importance of breastfeeding and the adverse effects of bottle feeding is significantly lacking. Also, the knowledge about assessment, management and practices about diarrhoeal diseases among mothers is significantly less.