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Abstract
Introduction:
Childhood injury is a neglected
public health problem with
a sizeable burden on children’s
well-being and their families.
Unintentional injury is one
of the leading causes of mortality
and morbidity among children.
Aim:
The current study aimed to
assess maternal knowledge
and awareness about child
trauma in Saudi Arabia.
Methods:
A cross-sectional study was
conducted on accessible and
eligible mothers of children
in a hospital from June 2024
to mid-august 2024. The study
used a pre-structured questionnaire
to collect bio-demographic
data, child trauma history,
and awareness about child
trauma. The questionnaire’s
validity and reliability were
assessed through a pilot study
and expert review. The final
questionnaire was distributed
online to eligible participants
until no new participants
were obtained.
Results:
A total of 351 (73.1%) mothers
reported that at least one
of their children was previously
injured which was for 2-3
times among 160 (45.6%) of
them, and for more than 3
times among 130 (37%). The
most reported causes of injury
were accidents (54.2%), fall
from height (52%). As for
awareness level, a total of
161 (33.5%) mothers had an
overall good awareness about
child trauma while the vast
majority (66.5%) had poor
awareness level.
Conclusion:
The study found that most
children experience childhood
trauma, mainly contusions
and fractures from falls or
accidents. Mothers lack knowledge
about first aid and preventive
measures. Efforts to develop
evidence-based educational
programs are needed. National
assessments are needed.
Keywords:
Child trauma, prevalence,
mothers, awareness,
practice, predictors, Saudi
Arabia.
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