Parents' Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Regarding Febrile Convulsion in Children in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Abstract

Background Fever is a common presentation in pediatric age groups and is the most common reason for healthcare visits. Parents' knowledge is essential for early presentation to healthcare facilities and to prevent possible complications. Studies suggest that febrile convulsions (FCs) often cause stress and anxiety for parents, who often assume it may cause brain damage, future epilepsy attacks, mental retardation, physical injury, and even death. This study aims to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices of FCs among parents. Methodology This cross-sectional study was conducted among parents living in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with children younger than 14 years of age. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed among the selected population using an online survey. The questionnaire included socio-demographic data, family experiences of FC, practice toward a child with FC, and questions assessing knowledge, attitude, and concerns. Results Of the 415 recruited parents, 350 (84.3%) were mothers, and 56.4% were government employees. Regarding monthly income, 172 (41.4%) were earning more than 15,000 SAR per month. The prevalence of parents with having a child with FC was 33%. Overall, 369 (88.9%) had poor knowledge, 41 (9.9%) had moderate knowledge, and only five (1.2%) had good knowledge levels. Regarding attitude, more than one-third (200, 35.2%), had a negative attitude, 205 (49.4%) were neutral, and the rest had positive attitude levels (64, 15.4%). Increased knowledge and attitude toward FC were associated with having a child or siblings of a child with FC. Regarding the practice and the plan of action for future FC occurrence, the most common was to rush the child to a doctor (94, 68.6%), followed by lowering the child's body temperature (78, 56.9%), and placing the child on his/her side (54, 39.4%). Conclusions There was an optimistic attitude toward a child with FC but knowledge was deficient. However, parents who had a child or siblings experiencing FC were more knowledgeable, while parents with higher education and better income tended to exhibit better attitudes when managing a child with FC. Further investigations are needed to establish the level of understanding and perspectives of parents when managing a child with FC.