Knowledge and associated factors regarding antibiotic use for children under five among mothers in Nam Dinh city

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to describe the knowledge of mothers with children under 5 years old regarding antibiotic use in Nam Dinh city in 2025 and to analyze associated factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2024 to June 2025 among 400 mothers at four kindergartens. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire of 15 items; good knowledge was defined as answering at least 11 out of 15 questions correctly. Results: The mean score was 7.43 ± 1.92/10. Overall, 66.8% of mothers had good knowledge. High proportions answered correctly about appropriate dosage for children (92.5%) and adverse effects of misuse (87.5%). However, 48.2% mistakenly believed antibiotics treat viral infections, and 55.8% thought antibiotics cause no side effects. Knowledge was significantly associated with education level above high school, not having used antibiotics for their child in the past six months, and receiving information from healthcare workers (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Most mothers demonstrated adequate knowledge of antibiotic use for children under 5 years old, but common misconceptions remain. Strengthening health education is necessary, particularly for mothers with lower education levels and those accustomed to self-medicating with antibiotics