<b>Fathers' Knowledge of Oral Rehydration Solution in Home Management of Childhood Diarrhoea in a Semi-Urban Nigerian Community</b>

Abstract

Introduction: Extensive research has examined maternal knowledge and practices regarding diarrhoea management and ORS utilisation, whereas the role of fathers has been less explored. This study assessed fathers’ knowledge of the use of ORS in the home management of childhood diarrhoea. Methods: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study of 198 purposively selected fathers using structured, interviewer-administered questionnaires. Fathers’ knowledge was assessed through the correct identification of certain facts about ORS. The 50% mark was used as the cut-off for good and poor knowledge. Data analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS version 23. Chi-square and Logistic regression analyses were done. A p-value of ≤0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Mean age was 36.7±7.82 years. The majority (73.7%) of the participants had good knowledge of ORS, while 26.3% had poor knowledge. Men who were currently married had 86% lower odds of having good knowledge of ORS compared to men who were not currently married, comprising single, divorced, and widowed men [Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) = 0.140; 95% Confidence interval (C.I.) = 0.046-0.422]. Also, men who had up to a tertiary education were twice as likely to have good knowledge of ORS (AOR=2.017; 95% C.I. = 1.019- 3.995). Conclusion: Fathers' knowledge of ORS was significantly associated with education and marital status. There is a need to invest in male education as a long-term approach to enhance childhood ORS utilisation. There should also be tailored interventions to foster shared responsibility among couples, especially as it relates to childhood diarrhoea management.