Nursery school supervisors' knowledge and practice regarding prevention of upper respiratory tract infections among children under 5 years old

Abstract

Upper respiratory tract infections are the major causes of mortality and morbidity for children under 5 years. The Aim of this study was to assess nursery school supervisor’s knowledge and practice regarding prevention of upper respiratory tract infections among children under 5 years old. Design: A descriptive research design was used in this study. Method: the study was carried out at (12) nursery schools from east and west of Assiut city. A convenience sample of (57) participants (35) teachers and (22) supervisors. A structured self-administered questionnaire to assess nursery school supervisors' knowledge and observational checklist to evaluate their practice concerning the prevention of upper respiratory tract infections were used. Results: Knowledge regarding prevention of upper respiratory tract infections in children under five years among nursery schools was insufficient as well as practices. Conclusion: the participants had insufficient knowledge and practices regarding the prevention of upper respiratory tract infections in children under five years there were statistically significant relation between participant socio-demographic characteristics and their knowledge (age, years of experience), while no statically significant relation between participant socio-demographic characteristics and their practice. The study Recommended that Providing periodic regular training educational program for all nursery schools teachers and supervisors about infection control precautions.