Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Mothers in Selected Rural Areas of Bangladesh Regarding the Use of Oral Rehydration Solution

Introduction: Diarrhea is a major cause of child death worldwide. While Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) is a simple, lifesaving treatment, its use is limited by gaps in knowledge. With a view to assessing the knowledge, attitudes and practices of ORS use, a study was conducted among 180 respondents in Tajpur, Dinajpur.
Objective: To assess mothers’ knowledge, attitudes and practices in selected rural areas regarding the use, correct preparation and practical application of Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS).
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a structured questionnaire. A total of 180 respondents were selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected on socio-demographic characteristics and specific KAP indicators related to ORS definition, preparation, storage and usage during diarrheal episodes. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data.
Results: The study revealed a high level of general awareness about ORS, 92.0% of the total respondents knowing it is used to treat diarrhea and 88.0% expressing a desire for more information. However, critical knowledge gaps identified that only 37.0% of the total respondents knew the correct storage duration for prepared ORS (12 hours) and 30.0% incorrectly believed ORS should not be administered to a vomiting child. Although 90.0% knew the correct amount of water (500ml) needed for one packet of ORS preparation but more than half (53.0%) of the total respondents practiced mixing inadequate water to prepare ORS. Most respondents (48.0%) often using mugs, a non-standard household items as water measurement tools for ORS preparation and a significant portion (5.0%) reused the leftover ORS from previous day. Most of the respondents (80.0%) had used packet of ORS in their last diarrheal episode and found it affordable (89.0%). Family members (29.0%) were the most frequently cited source of information about ORS.
Conclusion: Despite high level of awareness of ORS, a significant knowledge-practice gap exists. Critical errors in preparation, storage and use, especially during vomiting, are common. Future programs must focus on practical, hands-on training to ensure correct ORS use and maximize its effectiveness