Knowledge and awareness of optimal use of reporting guidelines in paediatricians: A cross-sectional study

Area of Science:

• Medical Research
• Scientific Publishing
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Scientific research reporting guidelines are essential for transparency and quality in health research.
• Awareness and adherence to these guidelines are crucial for researchers and reviewers.
• Previous studies indicate varying levels of understanding and application of reporting guidelines across medical specialties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess pediatricians' knowledge, awareness, and utilization of scientific research reporting guidelines.
• To identify common sources of information regarding these guidelines among pediatricians.
• To evaluate the perceived need for further education on reporting standards in pediatric research.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 224 pediatricians at two major hospitals in Ankara.
• Participants completed a 13-item questionnaire in Turkish focusing on reporting guidelines and the Enhancing the Quality and Transparency of Health Research network.
• Data collected included demographics, prior knowledge, guideline usage, and interest in further training.

Main Results:

• Only 20% of surveyed pediatricians were aware of reporting guidelines, with 26.6% of those having used them.
• Among those who reviewed scientific articles (29%), only 4.6% applied reporting guidelines.
• A significant majority (83.5%) expressed a desire for more information on reporting guidelines.

Conclusions:

• Pediatricians demonstrate a low level of awareness and insufficient application of scientific research reporting guidelines in their practice.
• There is a clear need for enhanced educational initiatives to improve the understanding and implementation of reporting standards within the pediatric community.
• Addressing this gap is vital for improving the quality and transparency of pediatric scientific research.