Assessment of Parental Awareness, Perception, and Management of Febrile convulsions in Children in selected hospital, Chennai

Abstract

Febrile convulsions (FCs) are defined as seizures that occur in the context of fever in children aged 6 months to 5 years, without any underlying central nervous system infection or metabolic disturbance. The study aimed to assess the Parental Awareness, Perception, and Management of Febrile convulsions in Children in Sree Balaji medical college and hospital, Chennai. Descriptive Cross-sectional design was used for the study. The study was conducted among 132 parents of children in a Sree Balaji medical college and hospital at Chennai. The samples were selected using a convenient sampling technique who fulfils inclusion criteria.  Parents of children aged 6 months to 5 years who have experienced febrile convulsions and Parents who are willing to participate in the study were included. Parents of children under 6 months, over 6 years, or with a history of febrile seizures or other causes of convulsions were excluded. The study shows that the most parents (90.91%) are aware of febrile convulsions, with high fever and infections as common causes, affecting children aged 1-3 years. While 64.39% know preventive measures and 71.97% monitor temperature, 83.33% seek more information. Although 45.45% are extremely concerned and 64.39% would seek immediate medical help, only 56.82% feel confident managing the condition. Parents commonly place the child in a safe position (90.91%), administer antipyretics (83.33%), and ensure hydration (71.97%). The study concluded that parents know what febrile convulsions are and comprehend them well but need training in using effective management techniques.