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. 2024 May 20;12(10):1047.
doi: 10.3390/healthcare12101047.

Assessment of Paracetamol Usage Practices and Perceptions among Caregivers for Children Post-COVID-19 in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Analysis

Saad S Alqahtani  1 , David Banji  2 , Otilia J F Banji  3
Affiliations

Assessment of Paracetamol Usage Practices and Perceptions among Caregivers for Children Post-COVID-19 in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Analysis

Saad S Alqahtani et al. Healthcare (Basel). .

Abstract

Caregivers often use paracetamol in the management of pediatric illnesses without a clear rationale. This study evaluated the perception and practices of caregivers regarding the use of paracetamol in children in Southwestern Saudi Arabia. This study involved a cross-sectional design involving 373 caregivers of children under twelve. The questionnaire elucidated the reasons, usage frequency, and safe usage practices. Data were analyzed using SPSS, applying Chi-square tests and logistic regression. Most caregivers were in the age range of 31-40 years, and with intermediate education. Paracetamol was mainly used for fever, generalized pain and, diarrhea, with fewer opting for other self-care measures. Caregivers with primary or less education were more likely to perceive paracetamol as safe (AOR = 2.98 (1.3-6.73), p = 0.009) and less inclined to check warning labels (AOR: 0.11 (0.05-0.25), p < 0.001) and expiry dates (AOR: 0.063 (0.027-0.14), p < 0.001). The caregiver's education level significantly influenced the determination of treatment duration (χ2 = 21.58 (4), p < 0.001), dosage (χ2 = 30.70 (4), p < 0.001), and frequency of administration (χ2 = 17.77 (4), p = 0.001). In conclusion, inadequate health literacy can result in a lack of attention towards crucial safety information about pediatric paracetamol use. Hence, counselling initiatives should be undertaken to ensure the safe and effective use of paracetamol in children.

Keywords: caregivers; fever; over-use; paracetamol; self-care.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Demographic characteristics of the caregivers and the children treated with paracetamol.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Reasons stated by caregivers for seeking medical help.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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