Hispanic mothers' knowledge and care of their children with respiratory illnesses: a pilot study

This pilot study was designed to identify Hispanic mothers' knowledge and health practices regarding caring for their children with respiratory illnesses. Using an interview guide, the researchers identified the mothers' perceptions of their children's health, the etiology and symptoms of asthma and other respiratory illnesses, health practices, folk illnesses, services sought and language barriers when using health services. The findings suggest that Hispanic mothers have limited knowledge of respiratory illnesses and use culturally related practices when caring for their sick children. Implications for pediatric nursing practice are discussed, and strategies to improve care for Hispanic families are presented.