Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of caregivers regarding febrile seizures in children in Pathum Thani Hospital
Keywords:
Anxiety, Apgar Score, Pediatric intensive care, Knowledge, Practices (KAP)Abstract
Background: Febrile seizures are common in children aged 6 months to 5 years. Although generally benign, they often cause anxiety among caregivers due to misconceptions, such as fears of brain damage, developmental delay, or increased epilepsy risk. Inappropriate first aid during seizures may also lead to injury.
Objective: To assess caregivers’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding febrile seizures and identify associated factors related to KAP.
Methods: A descriptive, prospective study was conducted at Pathum Thani Hospital from September 2024 to April 2025. A total of 478 caregivers of pediatric patients completed a 32-item KAP questionnaire of febrile seizures.
Results: Among the participants, 83.7% were female and 72.4% were mothers. Most had completed secondary education (51.9%) and had low income (78.0%). Overall, 59.6% had low knowledge scores (<70%). Common misconceptions included inserting objects into the mouth during seizures (46.5%), risk of permanent damage or death (72.6%), and increased epilepsy risk (68.7%). Most caregivers (89.2%) felt anxious and unsure how to respond during seizures. However, many reported correct practices such as staying calm (87.8%), tepid sponging (85.7%), and bringing the child to hospital promptly (97.2%). Logistic regression analysis identified significant associations between higher caregivers’ knowledge and the following factors: child’s birth order ≥4, diagnosis of febrile seizures, a family history of febrile seizures, and education (voc. cert., high voc. cert., and bachelor’s degree). Factors influencing attitudes included child’s age ≥5 years, seizure history (1-3 times), and bachelor’s degree. Factors influencing practices included diagnosis of febrile seizure. Good knowledge was significantly associated with a positive attitude (OR adjusted = 4.6) and appropriate practices (OR adjusted = 2.1)
Conclusion: Most caregivers had inadequate knowledge and some misconceptions about febrile seizures. Educational interventions are needed to improve understanding, reduce anxiety, and promote appropriate management.
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