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Over-the-counter medication use in preschool children
181st MG/Pediatric Clinic, Keesler Air Force Base, MS 39634, USA.
Summary
Caregiver perceptions of illness and medication effectiveness influence decisions on healthcare for young children. Trust in providers and understanding illness severity are key factors in seeking medical care.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Health
- Family Medicine
- Health Behavior
Background:
- Parental decisions on healthcare for preschool children are influenced by various factors.
- Understanding these factors is crucial for effective pediatric care and parental guidance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine how parental perceptions of illness, trust in providers, and medication effectiveness impact healthcare choices for young children.
- To investigate the influence of social factors on decisions regarding over-the-counter (OTC) medication use and seeking primary care.
Main Methods:
- A descriptive correlational study involving 52 caregivers of preschool-aged children.
- Data collected using the OTC Medication Questionnaire and Medicine Decisions Questionnaire during Head Start meetings.
Main Results:
- Caregiver age, socioeconomic status, and perceived OTC medication effectiveness correlated with OTC medication use.
- Perceived illness severity and susceptibility correlated with decisions to contact primary care providers or nurse practitioners.
Conclusions:
- Parents need clear guidelines on appropriate and effective OTC medication use.
- Primary care practitioners should provide anticipatory guidance on illness management, safe medication use, and healthcare system navigation.