Assessment of mother's knowledge and practice in use of oral rehydration solution for diarrhea in rural Bangladesh

OBJECTIVE: To assess mothers' knowledge, attitude and use of oral rehydration solution (ORS) for diarrhea management at home, and feeding practices during diarrhea for children under 5-years of age, in a rural Health Development Project, Bangladesh.

METHODS: This was a cross-sectional survey. This study was carried out in Cox's Bazar district, South Bangladesh, over a 2-week period, during May 1994. A sample of 300 households in the project area and a similar one in a control area were randomly selected using a multistage stratified technique. Data was collected by interviewing mothers at home using a standard questionnaire and through practical demonstration of how to prepare and use ORS correctly. Project and control households were compared regarding differences in knowledge and practice.

RESULTS: More mothers in the project area received information regarding ORS than in the control area (63% versus 59%). The majority of mothers in both project and control areas recognized ORS packets (97% versus 95%). A significantly higher proportion of mothers in the project area knew how to prepare ORS correctly (64% versus 55%). Mothers' skill of using ORS was significantly associated with having seen a packet of ORS and mothers' education. The ORS use rate was lower in the project area compared with the control area (74% versus 84%). No significant differences in feeding practices during diarrhea were detected.

CONCLUSION: The study showed that a significantly higher proportion of mothers in the project area knew how to prepare and use ORS correctly. However, the ORS use rate was inadequate. Repeated health education of mothers regarding diarrhea management is needed. Oral rehydration solution should be made available at health posts and households.