Parents understanding on measles: a study in Al-Elwyia paediatric hospital in Baghdad province, Iraq

Objectives The findings of the study have proved that there is a high significant positive relationship between the parents’ knowledge and their demographic variables (age, educational level, occupation and residential area). In general, knowledge of parents related to measles was low however, the parents applied preventive practices towards their children with measles. A cross-sectional study was conducted in Al-Elwyia paediatric teaching hospital in Baghdad from the middle of June till the end of September 2014, in order to identify parents’ knowledge of their children with measles. Aim To identify the effectiveness of traditional knowledge of parents’ whose children suffer from measles. Methodology Purposive sample of 100 parents who accompanied their children with measles have been selected. The reliability of the instrument was determined through a test and validating through a panel of experts. The data was analysed through the application of descriptive statistical analysis that include frequency, mean, mean of scores, standard deviation and percentage and the application of inferential statistical analysis that include Pearson correlation coefficient, chi-square, and analysis of variance for the differences test of the study group. Results The results of the study indicated a positive effect on the knowledge of parents. Recommendations The researchers recommended preparing and implementing the knowledge for parents with measles, and for medical and nursing staff to give them knowledge about the condition