Urban parents' understanding of fever in children: its dangers, and treatment practices
Singhi, S.; Padmini, P.; Sood, V.
Indian Pediatrics 28(5): 501-505
1991
ISSN/ISBN: 0019-6061 PMID: 1752678 Document Number: 319509
100 urban parents were interviewed concerning their knowledge, attitude, and treatment practices of fever in children. Only 55% of the parents were aware of the normal body temperature and 23% were aware of what constitutes febrile temperatures. A total of 58% considered fever a disease, 91% felt that it could continue to rise if unchecked, and 60% believed that if it is brought down, the child would be cured. For home treatment, paracetamol was used by 57% of the parents and cold sponging by 29%. 63% were of the opinion that a doctor must be consulted in the event of a fever. The understanding of fever and home treatment practices were significantly greater in parents who were highly educated. The above points must be considered when counseling the parent of a child with a fever, and for formulating a health education package for parents.