Parents' Knowledge and Attitudes on Antibiotic Use in Children
Author Information
Author(s): Rousounidis Andreas, Papaevangelou Vassiliki, Hadjipanayis Adamos, Panagakou Sotiria, Theodoridou Maria, Syrogiannopoulos George, Hadjichristodoulou Christos
Primary Institution: Department of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly
Hypothesis
What are the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of parents regarding antibiotic use for children with upper respiratory tract infections in Cyprus?
Conclusion
Cypriotic parents generally trust their pediatricians and do not pressure them for antibiotic prescriptions, although many still expect antibiotics for URTI symptoms.
Supporting Evidence
- 90% of parents trust their pediatrician as the main source of information on antibiotics.
- 48.4% of parents believe antibiotics can decrease the duration of URTI symptoms.
- Low parental education is a significant risk factor for antibiotic misuse.
Takeaway
This study shows that parents in Cyprus mostly follow their doctors' advice about antibiotics for their kids, but many still think antibiotics can help with colds.
Methodology
A survey using a pre-tested KAP questionnaire was distributed to parents and pediatricians in Cyprus, with a response rate of 69.3%.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to self-reported data and the exclusion of questionnaires with inconsistent responses.
Limitations
The study's findings may not be generalizable beyond Cyprus, and the response rate was below 70%.
Participant Demographics
Parents of children aged 4-7 years, with a response rate higher in Larnaca than Limassol.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95%CI 2.02 to 4.12
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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