Complementary And Alternative Medicine Practitioner's Management Of Acute Respiratory Tract Infections In Children -...

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Health
• Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM)
• Public Health

Background:

• Acute respiratory tract infection (ARTI) is a leading cause of childhood hospitalizations.
• Parents frequently seek CAM for pediatric ARTI, yet recommended treatments remain unclear.
• Understanding CAM practitioner approaches to pediatric ARTI is crucial for integrated care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify common CAM treatments prescribed for childhood ARTI.
• To explore the decision-making processes of CAM practitioners for pediatric ARTI management.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative descriptive study using semi-structured interviews.
• Participants: 24 CAM practitioners in Greater Melbourne treating children (0-12 years) with ARTI.
• Data analysis: Inductive content analysis with triangulation for trustworthiness.

Main Results:

• Most recommended treatments: lifestyle modification (95%), nutrition/diet (91%), and vitamin/mineral supplementation (87%).
• Practitioner decision-making centered on: management approach, individualization, 'do no harm,' and collaboration.
• Individualization and child safety are paramount in treatment decisions.

Conclusions:

• Common CAM interventions for pediatric ARTI are accessible and often align with conventional advice (e.g., rest, nutrition).
• CAM practitioner decision-making emphasizes safety and a biopsychosocial-cultural approach, mirroring mainstream healthcare.
• This research provides insights into CAM's role in managing childhood ARTI.