Knowledge of Diaper Dermatitis and Diaper Hygiene Practices among Mothers of Diaper-wearing Children

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of diaper dermatitis (DD), knowledge of DD prevention and treatment, and diaper hygiene practices among mothers with diaper-wearing children. METHODS: The participants were 176 mothers who presented to an outpatient clinic at a children's hospital with diaper-wearing children. Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire. RESULTS: The percent of correct answer for knowledge about DD was 59.7%. Almost half of the participants' children had experienced at least 1 episode of DD during the last 6 months. Inappropriate diaper hygiene practices, such as using talcum powder on DD and rubbing with a dry towel after cleansing, were reported. Moreover, only 37% of mothers used the recommended skin barrier to prevent DD. Although many children suffer from DD, levels of educational experience and perceived need for education on this topic were low. Almost 70% of mothers obtained DD-related information through internet sites. CONCLUSION: Educating parents about the etiology of DD and evidence-based diaper hygiene practices is an important aspect of effective DD prevention and treatment. Internet sites or smartphone apps may be effective methods for education on DD prevention and treatment considering parents' preferences for ways to obtain health information.