Evaluation of parental knowledge of Pediatric Rheumatic Diseases

W M Al-Eid1, S M Madi, S A Bahabri

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Center, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Medical Journal
|June 27, 2001
PubMed

Insights

Parental knowledge of pediatric rheumatic diseases is limited, with many holding incorrect beliefs. Health education programs are crucial for improving understanding and awareness of these chronic childhood conditions.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Rheumatology
  • Health Education
  • Chronic Disease Management

Background:

  • Pediatric rheumatic diseases are chronic conditions requiring significant parental understanding.
  • Effective health education is vital for managing these diseases and improving patient outcomes.
  • Limited parental knowledge can impede disease management and family well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess parental knowledge of pediatric rheumatic diseases.
  • To evaluate the role of health education in parental understanding.
  • To inform the development of public health education programs.

Main Methods:

  • A 20-question multiple-choice questionnaire administered to 100 parents of children with rheumatic diseases.
  • Assessed parental awareness of diagnosis, duration, information sources, satisfaction, and general disease/treatment knowledge.
  • Data collected during routine clinic visits at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center.

Main Results:

  • The overall mean knowledge score was 11.6 out of 23.
  • A majority of parents held misconceptions about pediatric rheumatic diseases.
  • Treating physicians were the primary information source, with generally satisfactory parental feedback.

Conclusions:

  • The study highlights a significant need for enhanced health education regarding pediatric rheumatic diseases.
  • A simple questionnaire can effectively assess parental knowledge levels.
  • Developing targeted public health education plans is recommended to improve awareness.
Abstract

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