Knowledge gained and preventive practices planned by mothers of children with dengue admitted to a ward at the Lady Ridgeway Hospital, Colombo, Sri Lanka

Abstract

Background and objective Targeting parents of children affected by dengue fever offers a window of opportunity for education. The present study aimed to assess the knowledge on dengue fever and preventive measures planned among mothers of children with dengue fever admitted to the University Paediatric Unit at the Lady Ridgeway Hospital. Methods This cross-sectional study included a consecutive sample of 300 mothers of children admitted to the University Paediatric Unit at the Lady Ridgeway Hospital with a clinical suspicion of dengue/confirmed dengue infection. An interviewer administered questionnaire was used to collect data. [190 (63.3%)] has improved following hospital admission. All participants reported looking for potential breeding places even prior to the admission and would continue to do so after discharge. Only 64 (21.3%) cleaned small water collections prior to the admission and those who would continue/take up this new practice was shown to increase to 174 (58%). The practice of day time application of repellent oils/ointments or sprays was seen to be the least practiced preventive measures 48(16%) but was the practice that the highest number indicated that they would adhere to after discharge from the hospital 258(86%). Results ConclusionsThe study showed evidence of success of the health education services of the University Paediatric Unit at Lady Ridgeway hospital and also revealed some important gaps to be addressed to improve the services.