Oral Rehydration Therapy- Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) Survey of Pakistani Mothers

Abstract

Background: To evaluate the knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) of mothers of under 5 year old children . Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study was undertaken to assess the KAP of mothers of children under 5 years of age regarding oral rehydration therapy. Data was collected from 100 mothers using convenience sampling, through an interview according to a structured questionnaire. Scores of knowledge regarding ORT, questions to reflect attitude and practices were also included and the information analysed on SPSS 16.0. By determining percentages and means with Standard deviations, independent samples t test was used to compare mean scores of knowledge. Results: Of the 100 mothers interviewed, 93% had heard of ORS, with 75% mothers with adequate knowledge about ORS, its preparation and administration. The attitude of mothers regarding its usefulness was positive and 96.8% mothers agreed that it didn’t have any side effect upon their child. Majority (74.4%) of the mothers gave their child ORS when he/she suffered from diarrhoea. Conclusion: Mothers of children under 5 years of age, in general, were found to be equipped with enough knowledge and positive attitude towards the utility of oral rehydration treatment in the prevention of dehydration caused by diarrhoea.