Objective: To assess mothers' knowledge, attitude and
use of oral rehydration solution (ORS) for diarrhea
management at home, and feeding practices during
diarrhea for children under 5-years of age, in a rural Health
Development Project, Bangladesh.
Methods: This was a cross-sectional survey. This study
was carried out in Cox’s Bazar district, South Bangladesh,
over a 2-week period, during May 1994. A sample of 300
households in the project area and a similar one in a
control area were randomly selected using a multistage
stratified technique. Data was collected by interviewing
mothers at home using a standard questionnaire and
through practical demonstration of how to prepare and use
ORS correctly. Project and control households were
compared regarding differences in knowledge and
practice.
Results: More mothers in the project area received
information regarding ORS than in the control area (63%
versus 59%). The majority of mothers in both project and
control areas recognized ORS packets (97% versus 95%).
A significantly higher proportion of mothers in the project
area knew how to prepare ORS correctly (64% versus
55%). Mothers’ skill of using ORS was significantly
associated with having seen a packet of ORS and mothers’
education. The ORS use rate was lower in the project area
compared with the control area (74% versus 84%). No
significant differences in feeding practices during diarrhea
were detected.
Conclusions: The study showed that a significantly
higher proportion of mothers in the project area knew how
to prepare and use ORS correctly. However, the ORS use
rate was inadequate. Repeated health education of mothers
regarding diarrhea management is needed. Oral
rehydration solution should be made available at health
posts and households.