Mothers' Experience of Febrile Convulsions in Their Children

Background Febrile convulsion is the most common convulsive disorder in under five children. About 1 in 25 children have suffered from febrile convulsion in at least one episode. It is a very difficult condition for parents to handle their children during convulsion and they worry about the future health of the child. It is one of the frightening, emotionally traumatic, and anxiety conditions experienced by parents. Objective This study intended to explore the experience of mothers on febrile convulsion in their children. Method The qualitative research design was used for the study. A purposive sampling technique was applied. An in-depth interview technique was used for data collection with in-depth interview guide. A total of ten mothers were included whose children were admitted with the diagnosis of febrile convulsion. Content analysis was done for the interpretation of the experience of mothers. Result Mothers expressed febrile convulsion as a serious condition for the child which leads to developing stress, fear, and anxiety among them. The majority of the mothers worried about the child's condition and they found it difficult to control themselves. Five themes emerged such as perceived threat, loss of control, need for support, utilizing health seeking behavior, and preventive measure. Conclusion Although the febrile convulsion is a life-threatening situation for children and parents. experience it as an extremely fearful and anxious condition health care professionals including nurses should be providing awareness program for preventing febrile convulsions and provide home management during that situation.