Internet Use by Parents of Children Undergoing Outpatient Otolaryngology Procedures

Abstract

Objectives: (1) To determine the prevalence of Internet medical information searches by parents prior to their child's surgical procedure, and (2) to evaluate whether Internet-based health information influences parents' medical decisions on behalf of their children. Design: A questionnaire designed to gather information regarding preoperative use of the Internet by parents of children who were scheduled to undergo outpatient otolaryngology procedures. Parents were asked to respond to questions regarding Internet searches for information specific to their child's diagnosis and anticipated surgical procedure. Setting: Tertiary care pediatric hospital. Results: Internet access was available to 83% of respondents. Of those parents with Internet access, 48% searched the Internet for information regarding their child's diagno

How do parents access, appraise, and apply health information on early childhood allergy prevention? A focus group and interview study

“…Thirdly, although online health information could be an important source of guidance for parents—not least given its accessibility—its current role and effect may be ambiguous. In accordance with prior findings on parental (digital) health information behavior, parents in this study reported frequently using digital ECAP sources, yet ranked digital sources least trusted of the different sources ( 19 , 40 , 51 , 52 ). In our study, this was often justified in terms of “anyone could write anything on the internet”.…”

“…In accordance with prior findings on parental (digital) health information behavior, parents in this study reported frequently using digital ECAP sources, yet ranked digital sources least trusted of the different sources (19,40,51,52). In our study, this was often justified in terms of "anyone could write anything on the internet".…”

Patients' use of the Internet for health related matters: a study of Internet usage in 2000 and 2006

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