KNOWLEDGE AND UTILIZATION OF ORAL REHYDRATION SOLUTION AMONG MOTHERS IN THE MANAGEMENT OF DIARRHOEA IN CHILDREN AGED 0–5 YEARS IN GUSAU, NORTHWESTERN NIGERIA

Abstract

Diarrhoeal diseases remain a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among children under five years of age, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Despite being largely preventable and treatable, diarrhoea continues to account for nearly half a million deaths annually among children in this age group worldwide. Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) is recognized as a simple, effective, and low-cost intervention for preventing and treating dehydration associated with diarrhoeal diseases. This study aimed to assess mothers’ knowledge and utilization of Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) in the management of diarrhoea among children aged 0–5 years in Gusau, Northwestern Nigeria. A community-based descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 240 mothers of children under five years of age. Data were collected using a semi-structured interviewer-administered questionnaire covering socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge of ORS, and utilization of ORS in the management of childhood diarrhoea. Data were entered, cleaned, and analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23. Descriptive statistics were summarized using frequencies and percentages, while chi-square tests were employed to determine associations between categorical variables. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Good knowledge of ORS was observed among 86.3% of respondents. However, ORS utilization was moderate, with only 45.4% of respondents reporting its use during recent episodes of childhood diarrhoea. The majority of participants had heard about ORS (89.2%), and 85.8% reported knowing how to prepare it correctly. Nevertheless, only 26.7% correctly identified the recommended preparation ratio of one sachet of ORS dissolved in one litre of clean water. ORS utilization was found to be significantly associated with respondents’ tribe and occupation (p < 0.05), while no significant associations were observed with other socio-demographic variables. Although maternal knowledge of ORS was high, its utilization during recent diarrhoeal episodes remained suboptimal, indicating a gap between knowledge and practice. Community-based demonstrations on the correct preparation and administration of ORS, improved access to zinc supplementation, engagement of traditional and religious leaders in health promotion activities, and strengthened counselling services at the primary healthcare level are recommended to improve the appropriate utilization of ORS and enhance the management of childhood diarrhoea.