Parental Knowledge, Attitudes, and Concerns Regarding Childhood Febrile Seizures.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.70672/y90bys35Keywords:
Febrile seizures, parental knowledge, paediatric emergency, MalaysiaAbstract
Background: Febrile seizures are the most common seizure disorder among young children, often leading to parental anxiety and unnecessary medical interventions. Despite their prevalence, limited research has explored parental knowledge, attitudes, and concerns in Malaysia. Objective: This study aimed to assess parental knowledge, attitudes, and concerns regarding febrile seizures among parents in Pahang, Malaysia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 235 parents of children under five years old in selected kindergartens. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge, attitudes, and concerns. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were applied. Results: The findings revealed that 55.3% of parents had moderate knowledge, with 53.6% believed recurrent febrile seizures could cause brain damage, and 43.8% incorrectly identified them as epilepsy. While 74% demonstrated a positive attitude, a similar proportion (74%) reported high levels of concern, particularly about potential brain damage (mean = 3.54, SD = 0.8) and subsequent epilepsy (mean = 3.38, SD = 0.8). Higher education level (p < 0.001) and prior experience with febrile seizures (p < 0.001) were significantly associated with better knowledge and attitudes. Conclusion: This study highlights persistent misconceptions and significant parental anxiety regarding febrile seizures. Targeted educational interventions are needed to improve parental understanding, alleviate fears, and enhance seizure management at home. Healthcare professionals should implement structured counselling and culturally sensitive communication strategies to support parents effectively.
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