An Examination of Parental Knowledge and Attitudes About the Rational Use of Antibiotics

Abstract

Aim: Our study aimed to assess the knowledge and attitudes of parents of pediatric patients presenting at our pediatrics outpatient clinic about the rational use of antibiotics. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, we had face-to-face interviews with parents of children. Scale forms and questionnaires were filled out after the interviews. Results: The mean level of knowledge of the parents about the rational use of antibiotics was found to be 55.33±7.77; their attitude level was 66.37±10.02. The more parents were educated, it was seen that knowledge and attitudes improved, but it was also observed that attitude levels fell and knowledge levels were not affected the older the parents were. Of the parents, 15.2% were found to keep antibiotics on hand in the house, 7.2% wished to have antibiotics sold without prescription, and 5.5% gave their children antibiotics without a prescription. Additionally, the level of attitudes toward the rational use of antibiotics were 2.6-fold lower in males and 5.6-fold lower among parents who kept a stock of antibiotics at home. Conclusion: The high levels of knowledge and attitudes of the participants regarding the rational use of antibiotics constitutes an important finding and is a promising outcome. It is clear that families, especially those parents who are lesser educated, fathers, and the elderly need to be more informed on this subject. Multiple-site studies with more participants and controls that can represent a range of different socioeconomic circumstances should continue to be regularly conducted.