LAUSR

OBJECTIVE To assess mothers' knowledge about the quantity of oral rehydration salt and zinc in the management of diarrhoea. METHODS The cross-sectional study was conducted from May to August 2019 at The Children's Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan, and comprised mothers accompanying children aged <5 years admitted with diarrhoea complaints. Data was collected regarding demographics and mothers' awareness of signs of dehydration in diarrhoea, familiarity with the term oral rehydration salt, its correct preparation and administration and zinc supplementation. Data was analysed using SPSS 20. RESULTS Of the 334 mothers interviewed, 154(46%) were able to identify the signs of dehydration. Maternal awareness regarding use of oral rehydration salt and zinc in diarrhoea were significantly associated with maternal education and socioeconomic status (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS There is a need to generate awareness among mothers about the use of oral rehydration salt and zinc in diarrhoea.