Maternal Awareness and Practice of Child Trauma, Saudi Arabia

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.