Effect of Guiding Program on Mothers' Health Awareness Regarding Household Poisoning of their Children Less Than Six Years Old in Rural Areas.

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Household poisoning refers to the exposure to poisonous substances that can be products in the house. Poisoning is one of the leading causes of injury to children. Most poisonings happen in a child’s home, especially with a child under six years old. Young children are particularly susceptible to the ingestion of poisons, especially liquids, because they are very inquisitive, put most items in their mouths and are unaware of consequences. Children are often poisoned by common household chemicals, cleaners and medicines. The aim: this study aimed to explore the effect of a guiding program on mothers' health awareness regarding household poisoning of their children less than six years old. Design: A quasi-experimental study was utilized. Setting: The study was conducted in Maternal and Child Health Center in Moshtohour village, Qualyupia governorate and the Outpatient Clinic of Children’ Hospital affiliated to Ain Shams University Hospitals. Sample: A purposive sample composed of 50 mothers and their children were included in this study. Tools: 1. Pre-designed interview Questionnaire; to assess demographic characteristics of the studied mothers & their children and to assess mothers' knowledge regarding household poisoning. II. An Observation Checklist, it consisted of two parts: A) Poisoning Prevention Checklist, to assess mothers' reported practices regarding preventive measures of household poisoning. B) First Aid Poisoning Checklist, to assess mothers' reported practices regarding first aid of household poisoning. Results of the study revealed that, after application of the guiding program and booklets dissemination, the studied mothers showed significant improvement in their health awareness regarding household poisoning of their children less than six years old. Conclusion: Application of the guiding program has a positive effect on the studied mothers' knowledge and reported practices regarding household poisoning of their children less than six years old. This study recommended that, guiding programs for household poisoning prevention should be applied in all pediatric health care settings. Guiding instructions through mass media should be directed to prevent and control household poisoning among children.