Febrile Seizures: Perceptions and Knowledge of Parents of Affected and Unaffected Children

Abstract

Febrile seizures (FS) in children are common. Little is known on parents’ perceptions and knowledge of FS. We interviewed parents of children aged 6 months to 6 years affected (FS-group, 65 parents) or unaffected by FS (unaffected group, 54 parents). Of the FS-group, 32% said they knew their child had a FS when the first event occurred. Of the FS-group, 89% described fear when the child had a seizure with a median intensity of 10/10 (Q25/Q75: 9/10). Of the FS-group, 77% said they (will) observe their child more carefully since the first seizure had happened, 63% (will) give antipyretics earlier at a median temperature of 38.2°C (100.8°F). Of the FS-group, 62% had not informed themselves about FS before the first event occurred (unaffected group: 54% had not informed themselves about FS so far). Of the FS-group, 20% would put a solid object in the mouth of a child having a seizure (unaffected group 39%), and 92% would administer an available anti-seizure rescue medication (unaffected group 78%). Of the FS-group, 71% stated children with FS might suffocate (unaffected group 70%). Conclusion: Information about FS and its management should be more widespread to improve parents’ coping and patient safety.