ASSESSMENT OF PARENTS’ KNOWLEDGE REGARDING FIRST AID MANAGEMENT OF BURN INJURIES IN CHILDREN

Abstract

Background: Burn injuries are a significant global public health concern and impose a substantial burden on healthcare systems, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. They contribute to increased morbidity and mortality; however, many complications can be reduced through appropriate first aid management.

Objective: To assess parents’ knowledge regarding first aid management of burn injuries in children.

Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at the British Public School, Muzaffargarh. A sample size of 87 participants was calculated, and convenience sampling was used to recruit willing parents of children enrolled in the school. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Ethical approval was obtained before data collection, and informed consent was taken from all participants. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 24. Descriptive statistics were applied. Categorical variables such as gender and family structure were presented as frequencies and percentages, while continuous variables such as age were expressed as mean and standard deviation.               

Results: A total of 87 parents participated in the study. The age (mean±SD) of participants was 31.66±7.93 years. Almost half 47 (54%) of the participants were females. Approximately one-third, 30 (34.5%) of the participants had secondary level of education. Most participants demonstrated poor knowledge of burn first aid, with 80.5% incorrectly identifying toothpaste as treatment and 72.4% not applying water to burns. Only 3.4% correctly identified the recommended duration of water application (15-20 minutes).

Conclusion: Parents demonstrated inadequate knowledge regarding first aid management of burn injuries in children. There is a need for educational interventions to improve awareness and promote appropriate burn first aid practices.