Promoting Better Home Care of Young Children with Diarrhea through Workshops at Preschool and Daycare Settings

Abstract

Diarrhea is a common and sometimes deadly illness of young children. Proper early care by parents can prevent serious complications. Recommended approaches to fluid replacement and feeding during diarrhea are not widely practiced, however. More education of parents is needed. The present study evaluated the feasibility and effectiveness of an educational intervention designed to reach parents through early childhood settings. Daycare and preschool facilities in Wilcox County, Ala., were receptive to in-service training for parents, teachers, and staff on how to care for young children with diarrhea. A knowledge pretest confirmed that recommendations for the early care of diarrhea were largely unfamiliar and not routinely practiced. Knowledge levels increased substantially after a practical workshop that can be easily replicated. Among participants who completed knowledge tests before and after the workshop, the median test score increased from 32 to 84%. Distribution of information packets by daycare and preschool staff may be an effective way to disseminate information on diarrhea care to parents unable to attend the workshop.