Assessment of Fever Phobia and Fever Management in Mothers of Febrile Children Admitted to Hospitals in Northwestern Syria: A Fever Phobia Survey Study
Abstract
Background: Childhood fever is a natural, positive biological strategy developed by the body to protect the child from potentially harmful foreign agents. Complaint of fever that worries families because it causes discomfort to children and is externally recognizable, and it is one of the most common reasons for presentation to pediatric emergency departments.
Methods: This study was conducted on the mothers of children aged 0-6 years admitted to the emergency departments of Cobanbey and Azaz Homeland Hospitals using the face-to-face interview technique.
Results: Over half of the mothers chose to administer antipyretic syrup as a first line of treatment, while one-third of the mothers initiated antibiotic therapy without seeking medical advice when their children had a fever. In addition, the decision to lower the body temperature was based on concerns that the child might have a seizure and/or be harmed due to high temperatures.
Conclusion: Education for mothers can improve care for children with fever and reduce unnecessary emergency room visits and the use of antibiotics and antipyretics. It may be useful for civil society organizations and state-based institutions to create opportunities for access to education and information in humanitarian aid activities in these and similar regions.
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