Streptococcal pharyngitis : what do parents know?

This study sought to determine the level of parental knowledge regarding Streptococcal pharyngitis (strep throat). The sample was composed of 100 parents of children who visited the Willow Creek and the University of Utah Pediatric practices. At each site, parents were asked to provide demographic data and respond to a questionnaire which focused on the treatment, susceptibility and diagnostic aspects of strep throat. Parents scored highest on questions concerning treatment (87%). Seventy-five percent of the questions on susceptibility were answered correctly. Parents scored lowest on questions about diagnosis (68%). The leading source of knowledge about strep throat for parents was prior experience with the disease (63%). A low correlation was noted between income level and education versus correct answers. No correlation existed with other demographic variables and knowledge base. The study also evaluated whether a difference existed between what parent know and what health care providers believe parents need to know regarding Streptococcal pharyngitis. A difference was found to exist on certain questions within the categories of treatment, susceptibility and diagnosis.