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Parental perception of small ventricular septal defects in childhood
1Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
Insights
Most parents understand small ventricular septal defects (VSDs) but need better education on antibiotic prophylaxis. This study highlights areas for improved parental guidance regarding their child
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Cardiology
- Child Health
- Congenital Heart Defects
Background:
- Parental understanding of congenital heart defects is crucial for effective child management.
- Small ventricular septal defects (VSDs) are common and often considered minor cardiac abnormalities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess parental understanding and perception of a child's small ventricular septal defect (VSD).
- To identify factors influencing parental perceptions and their impact on child management.
- To evaluate parental knowledge of necessary precautions, such as antibiotic prophylaxis.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire-based study involving parents of 56 children diagnosed with small VSDs.
- Data collected from 40 parents across tertiary centers and private cardiology practices.
Main Results:
- Approximately 80% of parents perceived small VSDs as minor and understood the defect's nature.
- Two-thirds of parents recalled the necessity of antibiotic prophylaxis.
- Initial diagnosis caused parental distress, but physical activity was not restricted.
Conclusions:
- Parents generally understand small VSDs but require enhanced education on specific precautions like antibiotic prophylaxis.
- Improving parental comprehension is essential for optimal management of pediatric cardiac conditions.
Objective:
The main aim of this study was to determine the understanding and perception of parents following the diagnosis of a minor cardiac abnormality, namely a small ventricular septal defect, in the child. Other aims included discovering the reasons behind these perceptions and whether they affected the parents' management of their child and his/her cardiac problem.
Methods:
Fifty-six infants and children from two tertiary centres and the private practices of the participating cardiologists were enrolled over a 5-month period. Questionnaires were prepared and distributed to all their parents.
Results:
Complete data was obtained from 40 parents. Close to 80% of the parents perceived the small ventricular septal defect as a minor problem and most understood the nature of the defect. However, when asked about precautions for their child, only two-thirds recalled the need for antibiotic prophylaxis. Most parents experienced distress and anxiety when told initially of the diagnosis but none reportedly restricted their child's physical activity.
Conclusions:
Most parents have a clear understanding and perception of their child's small ventricular septal defect. There is a need for further improvement to facilitate parental understanding, especially with regard to the need for antibiotic prophylaxis.
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