Abstract
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess parents' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding the use of paracetamol in children. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the in Al-Baha region. A self-administered electronic questionnaire was constructed and distributed by the research team using a simple random sampling method. The questionnaire included sections regarding the sociodemographic data, knowledge, practices and attitudes regarding pediatrics' paracetamol use. Parents or children's caregivers were targeted by the study. RESULTS: 41.9% of 1000 survey respondents reported administering paracetamol to their children. Parents reported administering paracetamol based on experience with similar symptoms in their children (27.2%). One-third of the respondents (33.3%) believes that the maximum amount to be administered in 1 time is a single dose, 58.8% are aware that overdose of paracetamol can harm the child, 60.8% had never administered adults' paracetamol to their children, 26% measure doses using a graded cup or a teaspoon, 61.3% preferred paracetamol syrup, and 56.9% store the drugs in the refrigerator. Re-administration of pediatric paracetamol, as per instructions of the manufacturer, is practiced by 40%. Physicians are the source of drug information in 48.1% of cases. Physician's prescriptions are the source of obtaining paracetamol in 51.1% of cases. CONCLUSION: A parental knowledge gap exists regarding the correct use of paracetamol for children in Al-Baha region. Educational programs should focus on the risks of overdose and the importance of following recommended dosages. Educational programs should also recommend limiting OTC dispensing of pediatric medications. Health care professionals should educate parents during clinical visits. Social media can be utilized to disseminate correct drug information. Narrowing of these gaps in parents' knowledge and practices improves safety and efficacy of paracetamol yielding better health outcomes.