| Description |
The purpose of this research study was to examine whether or not educational information about immunizations was being provided to parents. This study also examined the knowledge level parents had about what diseases were covered by the immunizations and when the immunizations were due. This nonexperimental descriptive research design was accomplished through one-time, structured, self-report interviews in a community health center. Parents or caregivers of children between the ages of 4 months to 2 years, who had an appointment with a primary health care provider in the clinic, were interviewed. The parents in this study reported receiving helpful information about immunizations from two main sources: (a) the immunization schedule handout and (b) discussions with their health care provider. Of the 40 parents interviewed, 100% believed the immunization schedule handout was helpful or very helpful. Thirty-eight parents (95%) believed that the discussion they had with their health care provider was helpful or very helpful. Thirty-eight parents (95%) believed that the discussion they had with their health care provider was helpful or very helpful. Thirty-seven parents (92.5%) believed the information currently being provided was sufficient for their needs. Only 2 parents (5%) stated completely the recommended time schedule for immunizations, including birth and 1 month old. None of the parents could identify all the immunizations recommended at 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, and 12 to 15 months. With the exception of the hepatitis series, 4 parents (10%) stated the specific immunizations recommended at 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, and 12 to 15 months. First, the results of this research study indicated that parents were provided with information about immunizations. Second, the results of this study indicated that the knowledge parents had about specific details regarding immunizations was limited. However, the parents perceived that the information provided and their knowledge about immunizations were sufficient to meet their health education needs. The health care provider's perception of the amount of knowledge parents should have regarding immunizations may not be the same as what the parents believed they need to know. For the parents in the study, their perception that their child was current on his or her immunizations was sufficient. |
