Knowledge of diarrhea management among rural practitioners.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To determine diarrhea management in rural practitioners. METHODS: This study was conducted among the RMP's of 4 blocks of Aligarh. Pre-coded questionnaire was completed and educational programme followed. 91% were prescribing ORS in various combinations, but only 9.8% were advising ORS and feeding as standard management of diarrhea. Only 12.8% could name a WHO ORS brand and 50% were giving wrong instructions for preparation. 95% were advising inadequate amounts of ORS. Only 43.5% were advising feeding during diarrhea but 86.6% were advising to continue breastfeeding. On an average every 3rd to 4th patient was administered IVF's. 52% felt that drugs should be prescribed. RESULTS: 90% and 55.3% of RMPs could identify diarrhea and key signs of dehydration. CONCLUSION: There is a need for hands on training for the practitioners and education of the masses regarding proper management of diarrhea.