Over-the-counter medication use in preschool children

The purpose of this study was to describe how parents'/caregivers' perceptions of illness severity, susceptibility to illness, trust in primary care providers, perceived barriers to seeking care, and perceived effectiveness of over-the-counter (OTC) medication affect their decisions about the type of health care to provide for preschool children. In addition, the impact of social factors on the decision to give OTC medications to preschool children and/or the decision about whether to call the primary care provider was examined.

A descriptive correlational study was used with a convenience sample of 52 caregivers of preschool-aged children. The OTC Medication Questionnaire and Medicine Decisions Questionnaire were given during parental Head Start meetings.

Significant correlations existed between the age of the caregiver, socioeconomic status, perceived effectiveness of OTC medications, and the giving of OTC medications. Significant correlations also existed between perceived severity of illness, perceived susceptibility to illness, and calling the primary care provider or nurse practitioner.

Specific guidelines for appropriate use of OTC medications should be provided to parents. These guidelines should include which OTC medications have proved to be effective. Anticipatory guidance by primary care practitioners is essential to prepare families for illnesses and illness progression, teach them about the efficacy and safe use of OTC medications, and help them use the health care system effectively.