PNS100 A STUDY OF KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICE REGARDING ADMINISTRATION OF PAEDIATRIC DOSAGE FORMS

Abstract

Parental attitude is one of the important factors that affect medication use and adherence among pediatrics. Our study aims to assess the Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) of caregivers regarding medication use in children. A cross sectional study was conducted in the inpatient and outpatient pediatrics department at a tertiary care hospital over 6 months. We surveyed caregivers with children under age 18 to determine the medication administration practices. A validated questionnaire was administered to assess the Knowledge, Attitude and Practices (KAP) of the study population and responses were obtained. Correlations analysis was performed to assess correlation among various domains. A total of 149 caregivers were enrolled in the study. Majority of the primary caregivers surveyed were illiterate (65%), homemaker mothers (64%). 64% and 82.7% were unaware about 1 teaspoon and 1 tablespoon dosing respectively. Caregivers frequently reported stoppage of medicines once the child feels better (50%). Dissolving of solid oral dosage forms and mixing them with milk (61.7%) was the most frequently reported method of administration. 34.9% caregivers reported use of non-standardized liquid dosing instruments. Spearman’s correlation analysis showed significant correlation between education of caregiver and knowledge (p<0.01; 0.34) as well as attitude (p<0.01; 0.44). Medication errors were reported significantly more in the outpatient setting. The caregivers of pediatric population had poor knowledge regarding medicine administration and measurement of dosage forms. Active patient counselling sessions by healthcare professionals can make an impact among caregivers regarding medication utilization practices of pediatric dosage forms.