The Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Paracetamol and Ibuprofen Administration Among Saudi Parents in the Makkah Region.

Abstract

Introduction Paracetamol and ibuprofen, widely used for pediatric fever and pain, are safe when administered correctly. However, the caregiver's lack of understanding poses risks such as overdose. Addressing knowledge gaps is crucial due to reported variations in over-the-counter medication practices. "Fever phobia" underscores parental anxiety, stressing the ongoing need for research in this healthcare domain. Methodology This is a descriptive cross-sectional design targeting Saudi parents and caregivers from the Makkah regionwho have children aged 0-10 years. Data was collected via a self-administered validated online questionnaire in the Arabic language using a convenient sampling technique. The data was cleaned in Excel and analyzed using SPSS version 29 (IBM Inc., Armonk, New York). Results Our study included 449 parents and caregivers in the Makkah Region, of whom 337 (75.1%) were female, 179 (39.9%) were aged 18-29, and 425 (94.7%) were Saudi nationals. Knowledge assessment revealed gaps; e.g., only 86 (26.6%) identified baby weight as a dosage factor. Attitudes varied, with 152 (47.1%) associating paracetamol/ibuprofen with liver harm. Logistic regression showed no significant predictors for high-level knowledge, positive attitudes, or good practices, except for gender-influencing good practices (p=0.035, aOR=1.839). Significantly, males exhibited better practices regarding using of paracetamol. Conclusion Our study highlights knowledge gaps among parents and caregivers in the Makkah Region regarding pediatric fever management with paracetamol and ibuprofen. Attitudes varied, and gender significantly influenced good practices, with males demonstrating better adherence to the proper practice of managing children using paracetamol and ibuprofen.