Assessment of Parental Knowledge, Attitudes and Practice Towards Antibiotic Use in Egyptian Pediatric Community, Qalyubia

Abstract

Background: Wrong and too much use of antibiotics are key causes of the worldwide issue of resistance to them. In Egypt, the number  of parents not knowing the correct way to use antibiotics for kids is growing. This mistake can cause an increase in infections resistant to antibiotics.

Aim: The purpose of this study is to measure what Egyptian parents know and think about antibiotics for kids, and what they do about it.  This can help find misunderstandings and things missed. These findings can then be used to teach parents.

Subjects and Method: This  cross-sectional observational study was conducted at Abou Al Monagga Central Hospital, Qalyubia, Egypt, in December 2023. We  gathered this info from 240 parents at Hospital's Pediatric Clinics.

Results: Initial research shows a big hole in what parents know about when and how long to give antibiotics for kids' infections. Lots of parents like to decide for themselves when to use antibiotics or use  ones they have left over, without asking a doctor. Parents' feelings about antibiotics are different. Some think they're a fast fix for colds and the flu, even though these are caused by viruses. Behavior shows a worrisome amount of not sticking with the antibiotics schedule.  This leads to unfinished treatments and possible resistance.

Conclusion: There's a big need for special educational plans. They should  better parent understanding and thinking related to kids’ antibiotics use. By fixing wrong ideas and increasing obedience to given  treatments, we can lessen incorrect antibiotic use.