Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Parents Regarding Febrile Seizures and Fever Management: A Cross-sectional Survey Study

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Parents Regarding Febrile Seizures and Fever Management: A Cross-sectional Survey Study | Research Square window.SnipcartSettings = { analytics: { enabled: false } }; (function() { var accessVector = localStorage.getItem('access_vector') || ''; window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; if (accessVector) { window.dataLayer.push({ user: { profile: { profileInfo: { snid: accessVector } } } }); } })(); (function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start':new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0],j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src='https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f);})(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-K279D39R'); Browse Preprints In Review Journals COVID-19 Preprints AJE Video Bytes Research Tools Research Promotion AJE Professional Editing AJE Rubriq About Preprint Platform In Review Editorial Policies Our Team Advisory Board Help Center Sign In Submit a Preprint Cite Share Download PDF Research Article Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Parents Regarding Febrile Seizures and Fever Management: A Cross-sectional Survey Study Ahmet Taşkın, Betül Kılıç This is a preprint; it has not been peer reviewed by a journal. https://doi.org/ 10.21203/rs.3.rs-7786331/v1 This work is licensed under a CC BY 4.0 License Status: Posted Version 1 posted You are reading this latest preprint version Abstract Objective This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of parents of children with febrile seizures regarding fever and seizure management, and to compare the findings with data from the literature. Materials and Methods This cross-sectional survey was conducted at the Pediatric Neurology Outpatient Clinic of Kocaeli Derince Training and Research Hospital. Parents of children aged 9–66 months who experienced febrile seizures were included. A total of 89 families completed a structured 26-item questionnaire covering the definition and management of fever, parental behaviors before-during-after febrile seizures, and experiences with healthcare services. Results Of the respondents, 62.9% were mothers, and 61.8% were parents of male children. Overall, 74.2% reported prior knowledge of febrile seizures, most frequently obtained from healthcare professionals (61.8%). The most common fever threshold reported was 37.5°C (49.5%). While 94.4% always kept a thermometer at home, electronic thermometers were the most commonly used (62.4%). Acetaminophen was the most frequently preferred antipyretic (56.1%), and lukewarm sponging was the most common non-pharmacological method (21.6%). Incorrect practices included encouraging excessive fluid intake (87.5%). During seizures, parents most frequently reported fear (39.1%) and panic (36.5%) as immediate reactions. The majority (91%) stated that their child had experienced a simple febrile seizure. Among those presenting to healthcare facilities, 60.7% received counseling, and 86.5% were informed about the risk of recurrence. Conclusion The findings indicate that “fever phobia” persists among parents, with persistent gaps in knowledge regarding the definition of fever, the role of antipyretics, and appropriate management during seizures. Incorrect practices not only threaten child safety but also impose additional burdens on the healthcare system. Therefore, structured, repeated, and multidimensional educational programs are essential to ensure accurate parental knowledge, clarify the limited role of antipyretics, and emphasize safe first-aid interventions. febrile seizure fever parents knowledge level fever phobia INTRODUCTION Fever is one of the most common symptoms in childhood and constitutes a leading cause of parental concern and healthcare visits ( 1 ). Although fever represents a physiological and protective response to infections, it is often perceived by parents as a harmful and dangerous condition ( 2 , 3 ). This misconception, termed “fever phobia” in the literature, remains a widespread problem worldwide. Parents frequently view fever as a threat that may result in brain damage, epilepsy, hearing loss, or even death, leading to excessive and inappropriate treatment practices ( 2 – 4 ). Among the most significant complications associated with fever in children are febrile seizures. Febrile seizure is defined as a seizure occurring in children aged 6 months to 5 years, associated with fever ≥ 38°C, in the absence of central nervous system infection or metabolic abnormalities ( 5 – 7 ). Simple febrile seizures are typically generalized, last less than 15 minutes, and do not recur within 24 hours, whereas complex febrile seizures are characterized by prolonged duration, focal features, or recurrence within the same 24 hours ( 5 – 7 ). As the most frequent seizure type in childhood and a major source of parental anxiety, febrile seizures hold particular importance in pediatric practice ( 5 , 6 ). The incidence of febrile seizures varies across populations but has generally been reported at 2–5%. In Japan, the rate is higher (7–10%), and in some regions, it reaches up to 14% ( 5 , 6 ). In Turkey, prevalence has been reported between 3.5–9.7%, while a large-scale community-based study in Kayseri found a rate of 4.3% among school-age children ( 8 ). Although most seizures follow a benign course with favorable long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes, recurrence occurs in approximately 30–50% of cases, and children with complex febrile seizures are at increased risk of developing epilepsy later in life ( 5 , 6 , 8 ). Viral infections are the most common triggers of febrile seizures, with strong associations reported for influenza, adenovirus, enterovirus, RSV, and particularly HHV-6 infections ( 5 , 6 ). Additional risk factors include a positive family history, younger age (< 12 months) at first seizure, short duration of fever before seizure onset, seizure occurrence at relatively low fever levels, neurodevelopmental disorders, prenatal risk factors (such as maternal smoking and stress), and mutations in certain ion channel genes ( 5 , 6 , 8 ). The preventive role of antipyretics in febrile seizures has been debated for decades. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials have demonstrated that commonly used antipyretics—such as paracetamol, ibuprofen, and diclofenac—are ineffective in preventing seizure recurrence ( 4 , 6 , 9 ). Nevertheless, many parents and even some physicians continue to believe in their preventive role, which contributes to inappropriate treatment practices ( 4 , 7 , 10 ). The primary goal of fever management should be to improve the child’s comfort, rather than to normalize body temperature ( 4 ). High levels of parental anxiety and misconceptions impose an additional burden on healthcare systems in the management of febrile seizures. Studies have shown that many parents resort to harmful practices during seizures (e.g., immersing the child in water, applying alcohol rubs, inserting hard objects into the mouth, or administering inappropriate medications) ( 2 , 10 , 11 ). Similarly, variability in physician knowledge and practices, and inconsistent adherence to guideline recommendations in the management of febrile seizures, have also been reported ( 7 ). Educational interventions targeting parents have been shown to effectively reduce anxiety. Both written and interactive programs improve parental knowledge, reduce inappropriate practices, and help to prevent unnecessary emergency visits ( 7 , 11 ). Therefore, accurate education of both families and healthcare providers is of critical importance in the management of febrile seizures. MATERIALS AND METHODS Study Design and Population : This research was designed as a cross-sectional survey study. It was conducted with parents of children presenting with febrile seizures to the Pediatric Neurology Outpatient Clinic of Kocaeli Derince Training and Research Hospital, Department of Pediatrics. Parents of children aged 9–66 months who had experienced febrile seizures were included. A total of 89 completed questionnaires were evaluated. Inclusion criteria were: (i) the child having a confirmed diagnosis of febrile seizure, (ii) parental consent to participate in the study, and (iii) the ability to complete the questionnaire. Parents of children with severe neurological or metabolic disorders and those who did not complete the questionnaire were excluded. Data Collection Tool Data were collected using a structured questionnaire of 26 items developed based on a review of the literature and previously published studies. Procedure The questionnaires were administered to parents through face-to-face interviews. The aim of the study was explained to all participants, and written informed consent was obtained. Standardized explanations were provided during the interviews to ensure consistency, and efforts were made to avoid influencing responses. Statistical Analysis Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 27.0. Descriptive statistics were expressed as numbers, percentages, means, and standard deviations. The Chi-square test was applied for comparisons between groups. A p-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. This study was approved by the Hamidiye Non-Interventional Research Ethics Committee of the University of Health Sciences (Approval No: 19/02, Date: January 25, 2019). The research was conducted in accordance with the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki. Written informed consent was obtained from all participants prior to data collection. RESULTS The study group consisted of 89 families whose children, aged between 9 and 66 months, presented with febrile seizures to the Pediatric Neurology Outpatient Clinic of Kocaeli Derince Training and Research Hospital. Of the children diagnosed with febrile seizures, 61.8% (n = 55) were male and 38.2% (n = 34) were female. The majority of respondents were mothers (62.9%, n = 56). Regarding educational status, the most common group was parents who had completed high school (n = 27, 30.3%). In terms of occupational distribution, 48.3% (n = 43) of the participants were housewives, while 51.7% (n = 46) were employed in various sectors (Table 1 ). Table 1 Demographic Characteristics of the Cases Min - Max Mean ± SD Age (months) 9–66 28,92 ± 15,20 N % Gender Female 34 38,2 Male 55 61,8 Respondent completing the questionnaire Mother 56 62,9 Father 32 36 Brother 1 1,1 Parental education level Primary school 13 14,6 Middle school 20 22,5 High school 27 30,3 Associate degree 4 4,5 Bachelor’s degree 16 18 Postgraduate (Master’s) 9 10,1 Parental occupation Housewife 43 48,3 Private sector employee 17 19,1 Public sector employee 29 32,6 N = number of participants; SD = standard deviation When evaluating the participants’ knowledge of febrile seizures, 74.2% (n = 66) reported that they were informed about the condition. Regarding the source of this information, the most frequently cited was healthcare professionals (61.8%, n = 63) (Table 2 ). Table 2 Participants’ Knowledge Levels Regarding Febrile Seizures Question Response N % Do you have knowledge about febrile seizures? Yes 66 74,2 No 23 25,8 Source of information about febrile seizures Healthcare professional 63 61,8 Relatives 10 9,8 Television 2 2 Newspaper 1 1 Internet 26 25,5 N = number of participants; % = percentage When parents were asked about their preparedness and methods for managing fever, the most commonly used method for detecting fever was a thermometer, reported by 43.1% (n = 47). Two participants selected the “other” option, noting that they recognized fever through decreased activity or fatigue in their child. Regarding the fever threshold, the most frequently accepted level was 37.5°C (49.5%, n = 46). When asked about thermometer availability at home, 94.4% (n = 84) of families reported always keeping one. Electronic thermometers were the most commonly used type (62.4%, n = 63). For fever reduction, the primary correct method was the administration of antipyretic syrup or suppositories as recommended by physicians (n = 71), with acetaminophen-based medications being the most preferred (n = 64). Among the incorrect practices, the most common was encouraging excessive fluid intake (n = 21). Furthermore, 97.8% (n = 87) of families stated that they always kept an antipyretic medication at home. Among non-pharmacological methods, lukewarm sponging was the most frequently used practice (67.7%, n = 63) (Table 3 ). Table 3 Evaluation of Parents’ Methods for Managing Fever and Their Level of Preparedness Question Response N % How do you recognize that your child has a fever? Thermometer 47 43,1 By touch 34 31,2 Irritability, crying, shivering 22 20,2 Cannot recognize 4 3,7 Other 2 1,8 Do you always keep a thermometer at home? Yes 84 94,4 No 5 5,6 What type of thermometer do you use? Electronic thermometer 63 62,4 Mercury thermometer 17 16,8 Infrared (tympanic) thermometer 21 20,8 At what temperature do you consider your child febrile? 30–36,5°C 0 0 37,5°C 46 49,5 38°C 35 37,6 39°C 11 11,8 40°C 1 1,1 Which methods do you use to reduce fever? CORRECT METHODS • Antipyretic (syrup/suppository) prescribed by physician • Tepid sponging • Bathing • Removing clothes • Ventilating the room 71 44 34 35 20 34,8 21,6 16,7 17,2 9,8 INCORRECT METHODS • Encouraging excessive fluid intake • Giving antipyretics without physician’s advice • Cough syrup • Antibiotics • Overdressing to induce sweating 21 3 - - - 87,5 12,5 - - - Do you always keep antipyretic medication at home? Yes 87 97,8 No 2 2,2 Which antipyretic medication do you use most frequently? Acetaminophen (Calpol, Parol, Minoset) 64 56,1 Ibuprofen (Dolven, İburamin, Pedifen) 50 43,9 Acetylsalicylic acid (Aspirin) - - What type of water do you use for cooling applications? Iced water 1 1,1 Water with vinegar, etc. 13 14 Tap water 16 17,2 Lukewarm water 63 67,7 N = number of participants; % = percentage When evaluating the preparations and preventive measures taken before febrile seizures, 76.3% of families reported that they measured their child’s temperature. Among these children, fever was below 38°C in 28 cases, while it was ≥ 38°C in 61 cases. Regarding the methods used to reduce fever prior to the seizure, 35.8% of parents reported administering antipyretics as recommended by physicians, whereas the most common incorrect practice was encouraging excessive fluid intake (72.7%) (Table 4 ). Table 4 Preparations and Measures Taken Before Febrile Seizures Question Response N % Did you measure your child’s temperature before the febrile seizure? Yes 68 76,3 No 21 23,6 What was your child’s temperature before the seizure? 38°C 61 68,3 Which methods did you use to reduce fever before the seizure? CORRECT METHODS • Antipyretic (syrup/suppository) prescribed by physician • Tepid sponging • Bathing • Removing clothes • Ventilating the room 58 35 28 30 11 35,8 21,6 17,3 18,5 6,8 INCORRECT METHODS • Encouraging excessive fluid intake • Giving antipyretics without physician’s advice • Cough syrup • Antibiotics • Overdressing to induce sweating 8 3 - - - 72,7 27,3 - - - N = number of participants; % = percentage When examining parental reactions, interventions, and management during febrile seizures, the most frequently reported parental emotion was fear (39.1%). The interval between the onset of fever and the occurrence of the febrile seizure was most commonly 1–6 hours (30.3%). Regarding seizure duration, the majority lasted between 1–5 minutes (48.3%). Among the appropriate interventions performed during febrile seizures, the most frequent was securing the airway (24.1%). Conversely, the most common inappropriate intervention was sprinkling water on the child (61.5%) (Table 5 ). Table 5 Parents’ Reactions and Interventions Question Response N % How long after the onset of fever did your child experience the seizure? 1–10 minutes 20 22,5 10–30 minutes 10 11,2 30 minutes-1 hour 16 18 1–6 hours 27 30,3 6–24 hours 16 18 What was your first reaction when you realized your child was having a febrile seizure? Fear 45 39,1 Panic 42 36,5 Sadness 11 9,6 Guilt - - Calm 17 14,8 Approximately how long did the febrile seizure last? 30 minutes 4 4,5 Did you intervene during the febrile seizure? CORRECT INTERVENTIONS • Placing the child on a flat surface • Turning the head to the side (lateral position) • Securing the airway • Preventing tongue from falling back • Immersing the child in water 11 23 26 25 23 10,2 21,3 24,1 23,1 21,3 INCORRECT INTERVENTIONS • Sprinkling water over the child • Shaking the child • Holding arms and legs to stop convulsions • Forcing a hard object into the mouth 24 8 7 - 61,5 20,5 17,9 - N = number of participants; % = percentage When evaluating the healthcare services and education provided by medical institutions after the child’s previous or current febrile seizure episodes, 84.3% of patients had experienced a febrile seizure before, while 47.1% reported only a single episode. The majority (89.9%) presented to a healthcare facility within the first 30 minutes after the seizure. The most common seizure type was simple febrile seizure (91%). Regarding the age at first seizure, 59.6% of cases occurred between 1 and 3 years of age. Concerning healthcare utilization, 98.9% of families reported presenting to a medical institution following the seizure. When asked about counseling received after the event, 60.7% of parents stated they had been provided with such a service. Most families (79.8%) reported that they were informed about the necessary preventive measures and appropriate practices. In addition, 86.5% of families stated that they were counseled about the risk of recurrence of febrile seizures (Table 6 ). Table 6 History of Febrile Seizures, Healthcare Utilization, and Counseling Information Question Response N % How many times did your child experience a febrile seizure before presenting to a healthcare facility? Once 42 47,2 Twice 21 23,6 Three times 15 16,9 More than three times 11 12,3 How long after the seizure did you present to a healthcare facility? Within 30 minutes 80 89,9 30 minutes–2 hours 1 1,1 2–6 hours - - Same day 8 9 Has your child experienced a seizure before? Yes 75 84,3 No 14 15,7 What type of seizure did your child experience? Febrile seizure (simple/complex) 81 91 Afebrile seizure (simple/complex) 8 9 At what age did your child have the first seizure? Before 1 year 29 32,6 1–3 years 53 59,6 3–5 years 4 4,5 After 5 years 3 3,4 Did you present to a healthcare facility after the first febrile seizure? Yes 88 98,9 No 1 1,1 Were you provided counseling about febrile seizures at the healthcare facility? Yes 54 60,7 No 35 39,3 Were you informed about the risk of recurrence of febrile seizures? Yes 77 86,5 No 12 13,5 Were you informed about the necessary precautions and appropriate practices regarding febrile seizures? Yes 71 79,8 No 18 20,2 N = number of participants; % = percentage DISCUSSION This study highlights the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of parents of children with febrile seizures (FS), reflecting the persistence of “fever phobia” and management heterogeneity in our population, consistent with reports from different societies worldwide. Our findings demonstrate that, although fever is a physiological defense response, parents continue to harbor considerable anxiety and misconceptions, with notable variability in their initial approaches and interventions during seizures ( 2 – 4 ). Such variability is not only related to families but also partly influenced by inconsistencies in the knowledge and attitudes of healthcare professionals ( 7 ). Although the definition of FS as the most common convulsive event in children aged 6 months–5 years with fever ≥ 38°C in the absence of central nervous system infection is well established, many parents interpret fever as a direct marker of disease severity and as a predictor of potential neurological sequelae ( 4 – 6 ). In contrast, the literature indicates that simple FS generally has favorable long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes, with incidence rates reported as 2–5% in Western populations, 7–10% in Japan, and even higher in some regions ( 5 , 6 ). Large-scale epidemiological data from Turkey similarly show prevalence rates within this range and identify recurrence risk factors such as younger age, short fever duration, low fever threshold, and positive family history ( 8 ). “Fever phobia” is characterized by parental beliefs that fever may cause brain damage, epilepsy, or death, leading to excessive practices such as administering antipyretics in the absence of fever or waking children from sleep to give medication ( 2 – 4 ). The high levels of fear and panic responses observed in our study align with this phenomenon and are consistent with reports from other countries ( 2 , 3 ). Moreover, variability in adherence to guidelines among healthcare professionals may contribute to unnecessary investigations, inappropriate treatments, and the dissemination of inaccurate messages ( 7 ). Our findings on the definition and measurement of fever align with guideline recommendations emphasizing the importance of standardized measurement sites and devices, while discouraging subjective assessments such as tactile evaluation ( 1 , 4 ). The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has underscored that fever should be viewed as a symptom causing discomfort rather than a disease itself, and that the therapeutic goal should be improving comfort rather than achieving normothermia ( 4 ). In our study, parental definitions of fever thresholds varied between 37.5–39°C, further highlighting the need for education and standardization ( 1 , 4 , 10 ). In fever management, antipyretics and physical cooling methods are the most frequently used interventions. However, systematic reviews of randomized trials have clearly shown that antipyretics do not prevent recurrence of FS ( 4 , 6 , 9 ). Despite this evidence, both parents and some physicians continue to attribute “seizure-preventive” effects to antipyretics, which increases the risks of inappropriate combinations, alternating regimens, and dosing errors ( 4 , 7 , 10 ). Recent surveys from Turkey also demonstrate that such misconceptions, along with over-the-counter and pharmacist-directed use of medications, remain prevalent ( 12 , 13 ). These findings underscore the necessity of explicitly communicating to parents that the assumption of “antipyretics = seizure prevention” is not scientifically supported ( 4 , 9 ). Parental first-aid practices during seizures revealed that essential correct steps—such as placing the child in a safe lateral or supine position, avoiding insertion of objects into the mouth, and refraining from restraining the limbs—were not universally known. Conversely, harmful practices such as immersing the child in water, applying cologne or vinegar, or inserting rigid objects into the mouth were still reported at considerable frequencies. Similar inappropriate practices have been described in surveys conducted at other centers ( 12 , 14 ). Current guidelines recommend benzodiazepine administration and urgent referral only for seizures lasting longer than 5 minutes, while for shorter events, emphasis is placed on ensuring safe positioning and protection from injury ( 6 ). Accordingly, strengthening parents’ skills in seizure first aid through brief, clear, and repeated educational interventions appears critical ( 7 , 11 ). Our findings are consistent with previous studies demonstrating the effectiveness of educational interventions. Both written materials and interactive training sessions have been shown to reduce parental anxiety, improve thermometer use accuracy, decrease medication dosing errors, and limit unnecessary emergency visits ( 7 , 11 ). Therefore, emergency consultations, outpatient visits, discharge summaries, and digital materials should be systematically utilized as “micro-education” opportunities ( 7 , 11 ). To minimize heterogeneity among physicians, short institutional training sessions and standardized information forms may also be beneficial ( 7 ). In the Turkish context, longitudinal surveys and recent data suggest partial improvements in parental knowledge; however, misconceptions—such as perceiving fever as inherently harmful, believing that antipyretics prevent seizures, and resorting to harmful practices during convulsions—remain prevalent ( 12 – 15 ). This persistence underscores the necessity for repeated, multi-channel educational strategies (clinical settings, family practice, pharmacy-based interventions, preschool/school health programs, digital resources) rather than single-session interventions ( 2 , 3 , 7 , 11 ). The strengths of our study include the use of comprehensive, real-world questions addressing parental practices and the ability to compare findings with other local data across different centers. Limitations include the cross-sectional design precluding causal inference; reliance on self-reported data, which is subject to recall bias (particularly regarding fever level and interventions before seizures); the limited generalizability due to being single-/few-center; and the lack of long-term follow-up on recurrence or development of epilepsy ( 1 , 6 , 8 ). Implications for practice include: (i) standardization of discharge education packages, (ii) provision of concise visual aids and dosing charts for parents, (iii) integration of consistent messaging across family physicians, pharmacists, and emergency services, (iv) explicit communication that antipyretics do not prevent recurrence, (v) demonstration of seizure first-aid techniques, and (vi) targeted counseling for high-risk groups (early-onset seizures, family history, short fever duration, low fever threshold) ( 4 , 6 , 8 , 9 ). In conclusion, our study demonstrates persistent gaps in parental knowledge and practices regarding fever and FS, highlighting the ongoing presence of “fever phobia” across cultures and healthcare settings. Repeated, guideline-based, and interactive educational strategies represent effective tools to address these gaps ( 2 – 4 , 7 , 11 ). Parents should be provided with clear, consistent, and practical messages emphasizing the generally benign nature of FS, the limited role of antipyretics and antiepileptics, and the importance of safe first-aid measures ( 4 – 6 , 9 ). CONCLUSION In this study, the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of parents of children diagnosed with febrile seizures were evaluated regarding fever and seizure management. Our findings indicate that despite fever being a physiological response, the majority of families still harbor significant anxiety and misconceptions, collectively referred to as “fever phobia.” Particularly notable were the lack of standardization in fever measurement, misbeliefs regarding the seizure-preventive role of antipyretics, and the persistence of inappropriate first-aid practices during seizures. When compared with the literature, our results are consistent with both similar surveys conducted in Türkiye and international data. Most families continue to perceive fever as potentially harmful to their children, which leads to inappropriate practices and unnecessary healthcare visits. In conclusion, although febrile seizures generally follow a benign course, parents exhibit high levels of anxiety and knowledge gaps. Therefore, the implementation of regular, repeated, and multidimensional educational programs for families is of critical importance. These programs should be delivered both within healthcare facilities and through community-based platforms (family practice, pharmacies, schools, digital resources), emphasizing correct first-aid practices and clarifying the limited role of antipyretics. Such an approach is expected to reduce parental anxiety, prevent harmful practices, and improve the overall management of febrile seizures for both families and the healthcare system. Declarations Author Contribution A.T. conceptualized and designed the study, supervised data collection, performed the statistical analysis, and drafted the initial manuscript. B.K. contributed to data acquisition, literature review, and critical revision of the manuscript. All authors read and approved the final version of the manuscript and agree to be accountable for all aspects of the work. References Marcy SM, Kohl KS, Dagan R, Nalin D, Blum M, Jones MC, et al. Fever as an adverse event following immunization: case definition and guidelines of data collection, analysis, and presentation. Vaccine. 2004;22(4):551-6. Pitoli PJ, Duarte BK, Fragoso AA, Damaceno DG, Marin MJS. Fever in children: parents' search for urgent and emergency services. Cien Saude Colet. 2021;26(2):445 – 54. Clericetti CM, Milani GP, Bianchetti MG, Simonetti GD, Fossali EF, Balestra AM, et al. Systematic review finds that fever phobia is a worldwide issue among caregivers and healthcare providers. 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Knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of families of children with febrile convulsions [specialization thesis]. Istanbul: T.C. Ministry of Health, Haydarpaşa Numune Training and Research Hospital; 2008. Tanrıöver M. Evaluation of parents’ knowledge, attitudes, and coping behaviors regarding epileptic seizures [specialization thesis]. Ankara: T.C. General Staff, Gülhane Military Medical Academy, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Family Medicine; 2012. Additional Declarations No competing interests reported. Cite Share Download PDF Status: Posted Version 1 posted You are reading this latest preprint version Research Square lets you share your work early, gain feedback from the community, and start making changes to your manuscript prior to peer review in a journal. As a division of Research Square Company, we’re committed to making research communication faster, fairer, and more useful. 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Also discoverable on Platform About Our Team In Review Editorial Policies Advisory Board Help Center Resources Author Services Accessibility API Access RSS feed Manage Cookie Preferences © Research Square 2026 | ISSN 2693-5015 (online) Privacy Policy Terms of Service Do Not Sell My Personal Information {"props":{"pageProps":{"initialData":{"identity":"rs-7786331","acceptedTermsAndConditions":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"archivedVersions":[],"articleType":"Research Article","associatedPublications":[],"authors":[{"id":531561523,"identity":"47a517a0-78a1-4aed-aa57-f827e47846b7","order_by":0,"name":"Ahmet Taşkın","email":"data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAZAAAAAyAQMAAABI0h/eAAAABlBMVEX///8AAABVwtN+AAAACXBIWXMAAA7EAAAOxAGVKw4bAAAA9ElEQVRIie3PsYrCMBjA8YSAk+j6iS/hdBz4KE7B+XNx6aAlkw7nAxwo9RUsQl0bCnWJuka8QfAFdMttl3qLCLV1E8wfEkLIjySEuFyvWHydgBDIFp4djIkCwm5IrDJCSxHyT+Qo2yogtcNOXoz67NWnX/x0CYad+tgS40W5pLHtsmZVQx9+NsuWjNb4nVBBJ+qQS1qKkSY5AxcaI5BRisISRkcPCfs1lsw1roycpTgvQSpgH8YX9hYixQAXRaSh2Ee7qoCHGpeg0hhDS+Sjv9QUPe1N6vNAY3j2Bj4Gu0QejZdP7kuuc1z6vM1/5rDL5XK9SX/lNGcbP3ciiAAAAABJRU5ErkJggg==","orcid":"","institution":"Medipol University Faculty of Medicine, Medipol Mega Hospital","correspondingAuthor":true,"prefix":"","firstName":"Ahmet","middleName":"","lastName":"Taşkın","suffix":""},{"id":531561524,"identity":"49829167-869b-481f-9746-3218318ca8b4","order_by":1,"name":"Betül Kılıç","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Medipol University Faculty of Medicine, Medipol Mega Hospital","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Betül","middleName":"","lastName":"Kılıç","suffix":""}],"badges":[],"createdAt":"2025-10-05 18:38:12","currentVersionCode":1,"declarations":"","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-7786331/v1","doiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-7786331/v1","draftVersion":[],"editorialEvents":[],"editorialNote":"","failedWorkflow":false,"files":[{"id":94120285,"identity":"cc3f7aff-da01-4f14-be8b-556e494be78a","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-10-22 14:56:40","extension":"docx","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"acdc-reference","size":47974,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"main.docx","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-7786331/v1/480f2a52a6586fbca9887896.docx"},{"id":94118902,"identity":"f15eb68b-4011-4c2f-be38-0a75a151d639","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-10-22 14:48:40","extension":"json","order_by":1,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"acdc-reference","size":5013,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"07d3ecf5cb0549d58c9e4b3d57db0f8a.json","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-7786331/v1/a47786bdcf439d3cc0753310.json"},{"id":94120286,"identity":"869d1f5c-f3b1-4fb7-98ae-157e06732fd2","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-10-22 14:56:40","extension":"xml","order_by":2,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"acdc-reference","size":78158,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"07d3ecf5cb0549d58c9e4b3d57db0f8a1enriched.xml","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-7786331/v1/fd46645d5f14712cb475ece1.xml"},{"id":94118905,"identity":"3d94d459-484e-4188-928e-71f491cb8284","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-10-22 14:48:40","extension":"xml","order_by":3,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"acdc-reference","size":77082,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"07d3ecf5cb0549d58c9e4b3d57db0f8a1structuring.xml","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-7786331/v1/7ea80477c44cf2583ca98584.xml"},{"id":94118903,"identity":"2d307399-b3f7-4281-a9d8-0edefc3378e9","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-10-22 14:48:40","extension":"html","order_by":4,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"acdc-reference","size":83640,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"earlyproof.html","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-7786331/v1/15f0589832e20a30d9ca6983.html"},{"id":94474750,"identity":"31a6a0d7-7e80-492d-a73f-66f1dd40f6e4","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-10-27 15:50:02","extension":"pdf","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"manuscript-pdf","size":700902,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"manuscript.pdf","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-7786331/v1/75f65fe1-1639-4773-8807-31b3697743e1.pdf"}],"financialInterests":"No competing interests reported.","formattedTitle":"Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Parents Regarding Febrile Seizures and Fever Management: A Cross-sectional Survey Study","fulltext":[{"header":"INTRODUCTION","content":"\u003cp\u003eFever is one of the most common symptoms in childhood and constitutes a leading cause of parental concern and healthcare visits (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e). Although fever represents a physiological and protective response to infections, it is often perceived by parents as a harmful and dangerous condition (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e). This misconception, termed \u0026ldquo;fever phobia\u0026rdquo; in the literature, remains a widespread problem worldwide. Parents frequently view fever as a threat that may result in brain damage, epilepsy, hearing loss, or even death, leading to excessive and inappropriate treatment practices (\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR3\" citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAmong the most significant complications associated with fever in children are febrile seizures. Febrile seizure is defined as a seizure occurring in children aged 6 months to 5 years, associated with fever\u0026thinsp;\u0026ge;\u0026thinsp;38\u0026deg;C, in the absence of central nervous system infection or metabolic abnormalities (\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR6\" citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e). Simple febrile seizures are typically generalized, last less than 15 minutes, and do not recur within 24 hours, whereas complex febrile seizures are characterized by prolonged duration, focal features, or recurrence within the same 24 hours (\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR6\" citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e). As the most frequent seizure type in childhood and a major source of parental anxiety, febrile seizures hold particular importance in pediatric practice (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe incidence of febrile seizures varies across populations but has generally been reported at 2\u0026ndash;5%. In Japan, the rate is higher (7\u0026ndash;10%), and in some regions, it reaches up to 14% (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e). In Turkey, prevalence has been reported between 3.5\u0026ndash;9.7%, while a large-scale community-based study in Kayseri found a rate of 4.3% among school-age children (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR8\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e8\u003c/span\u003e). Although most seizures follow a benign course with favorable long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes, recurrence occurs in approximately 30\u0026ndash;50% of cases, and children with complex febrile seizures are at increased risk of developing epilepsy later in life (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR8\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e8\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eViral infections are the most common triggers of febrile seizures, with strong associations reported for influenza, adenovirus, enterovirus, RSV, and particularly HHV-6 infections (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e). Additional risk factors include a positive family history, younger age (\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;12 months) at first seizure, short duration of fever before seizure onset, seizure occurrence at relatively low fever levels, neurodevelopmental disorders, prenatal risk factors (such as maternal smoking and stress), and mutations in certain ion channel genes (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR8\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e8\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe preventive role of antipyretics in febrile seizures has been debated for decades. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials have demonstrated that commonly used antipyretics\u0026mdash;such as paracetamol, ibuprofen, and diclofenac\u0026mdash;are ineffective in preventing seizure recurrence (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e9\u003c/span\u003e). Nevertheless, many parents and even some physicians continue to believe in their preventive role, which contributes to inappropriate treatment practices (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e10\u003c/span\u003e). The primary goal of fever management should be to improve the child\u0026rsquo;s comfort, rather than to normalize body temperature (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHigh levels of parental anxiety and misconceptions impose an additional burden on healthcare systems in the management of febrile seizures. Studies have shown that many parents resort to harmful practices during seizures (e.g., immersing the child in water, applying alcohol rubs, inserting hard objects into the mouth, or administering inappropriate medications) (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e10\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e). Similarly, variability in physician knowledge and practices, and inconsistent adherence to guideline recommendations in the management of febrile seizures, have also been reported (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eEducational interventions targeting parents have been shown to effectively reduce anxiety. Both written and interactive programs improve parental knowledge, reduce inappropriate practices, and help to prevent unnecessary emergency visits (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e). Therefore, accurate education of both families and healthcare providers is of critical importance in the management of febrile seizures.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"MATERIALS AND METHODS","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eStudy Design and Population\u003c/b\u003e: This research was designed as a cross-sectional survey study. It was conducted with parents of children presenting with febrile seizures to the Pediatric Neurology Outpatient Clinic of Kocaeli Derince Training and Research Hospital, Department of Pediatrics. Parents of children aged 9\u0026ndash;66 months who had experienced febrile seizures were included. A total of 89 completed questionnaires were evaluated. Inclusion criteria were: (i) the child having a confirmed diagnosis of febrile seizure, (ii) parental consent to participate in the study, and (iii) the ability to complete the questionnaire. Parents of children with severe neurological or metabolic disorders and those who did not complete the questionnaire were excluded.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eData Collection Tool\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cp\u003eData were collected using a structured questionnaire of 26 items developed based on a review of the literature and previously published studies.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProcedure\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe questionnaires were administered to parents through face-to-face interviews. The aim of the study was explained to all participants, and written informed consent was obtained. Standardized explanations were provided during the interviews to ensure consistency, and efforts were made to avoid influencing responses.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStatistical Analysis\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cp\u003eData were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 27.0. Descriptive statistics were expressed as numbers, percentages, means, and standard deviations. The Chi-square test was applied for comparisons between groups. A p-value of \u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05 was considered statistically significant.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e This study was approved by the Hamidiye Non-Interventional Research Ethics Committee of the University of Health Sciences (Approval No: 19/02, Date: January 25, 2019). The research was conducted in accordance with the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki. Written informed consent was obtained from all participants prior to data collection.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"RESULTS","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe study group consisted of 89 families whose children, aged between 9 and 66 months, presented with febrile seizures to the Pediatric Neurology Outpatient Clinic of Kocaeli Derince Training and Research Hospital. Of the children diagnosed with febrile seizures, 61.8% (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;55) were male and 38.2% (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;34) were female. The majority of respondents were mothers (62.9%, n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;56).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e Regarding educational status, the most common group was parents who had completed high school (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;27, 30.3%). In terms of occupational distribution, 48.3% (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;43) of the participants were housewives, while 51.7% (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;46) were employed in various sectors (Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab1\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 1\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eDemographic Characteristics of the Cases\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/caption\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"4\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c2\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eMin - Max\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eMean\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;SD\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c2\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eAge (months)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e9\u0026ndash;66\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e28,92\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;15,20\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c2\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eN\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e%\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eGender\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eFemale\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e34\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e38,2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eMale\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e55\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e61,8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"2\" rowspan=\"3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eRespondent completing the questionnaire\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eMother\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e56\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e62,9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eFather\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e32\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e36\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrother\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1,1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"5\" rowspan=\"6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eParental education level\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePrimary school\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e13\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e14,6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eMiddle school\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e20\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e22,5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eHigh school\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e27\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e30,3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eAssociate degree\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4,5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eBachelor\u0026rsquo;s degree\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e16\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e18\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePostgraduate (Master\u0026rsquo;s)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e10,1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"2\" rowspan=\"3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eParental occupation\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eHousewife\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e43\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e48,3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePrivate sector employee\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e17\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e19,1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePublic sector employee\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e29\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e32,6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003ctfoot\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd colspan=\"4\"\u003eN\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;number of participants; SD\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;standard deviation\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tfoot\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhen evaluating the participants\u0026rsquo; knowledge of febrile seizures, 74.2% (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;66) reported that they were informed about the condition. Regarding the source of this information, the most frequently cited was healthcare professionals (61.8%, n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;63) (Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab2\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 2\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eParticipants\u0026rsquo; Knowledge Levels Regarding Febrile Seizures\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/caption\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"4\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eQuestion\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eResponse\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eN\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e%\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eDo you have knowledge about febrile seizures?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e66\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e74,2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e23\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e25,8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"4\" rowspan=\"5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eSource of information about febrile seizures\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eHealthcare professional\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e63\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e61,8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eRelatives\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e10\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e9,8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eTelevision\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNewspaper\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eInternet\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e26\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e25,5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003ctfoot\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd colspan=\"4\"\u003eN\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;number of participants; % = percentage\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tfoot\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhen parents were asked about their preparedness and methods for managing fever, the most commonly used method for detecting fever was a thermometer, reported by 43.1% (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;47). Two participants selected the \u0026ldquo;other\u0026rdquo; option, noting that they recognized fever through decreased activity or fatigue in their child. Regarding the fever threshold, the most frequently accepted level was 37.5\u0026deg;C (49.5%, n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;46).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhen asked about thermometer availability at home, 94.4% (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;84) of families reported always keeping one. Electronic thermometers were the most commonly used type (62.4%, n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;63). For fever reduction, the primary correct method was the administration of antipyretic syrup or suppositories as recommended by physicians (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;71), with acetaminophen-based medications being the most preferred (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;64). Among the incorrect practices, the most common was encouraging excessive fluid intake (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;21).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFurthermore, 97.8% (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;87) of families stated that they always kept an antipyretic medication at home. Among non-pharmacological methods, lukewarm sponging was the most frequently used practice (67.7%, n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;63) (Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab3\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab3\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 3\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eEvaluation of Parents\u0026rsquo; Methods for Managing Fever and Their Level of Preparedness\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/caption\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"4\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eQuestion\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eResponse\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eN\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e%\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"4\" rowspan=\"5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eHow do you recognize that your child has a fever?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eThermometer\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e47\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e43,1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eBy touch\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e34\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e31,2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eIrritability, crying, shivering\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e22\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e20,2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eCannot recognize\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3,7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eOther\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1,8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eDo you always keep a thermometer at home?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e84\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e94,4\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5,6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"2\" rowspan=\"3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhat type of thermometer do you use?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eElectronic thermometer\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e63\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e62,4\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eMercury thermometer\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e17\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e16,8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eInfrared (tympanic) thermometer\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e21\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e20,8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"4\" rowspan=\"5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eAt what temperature do you consider your child febrile?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e30\u0026ndash;36,5\u0026deg;C\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e37,5\u0026deg;C\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e46\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e49,5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e38\u0026deg;C\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e35\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e37,6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e39\u0026deg;C\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e11\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e11,8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e40\u0026deg;C\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1,1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhich methods do you use to reduce fever?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan type=\"Underline\" class=\"Underline\" name=\"Emphasis\"\u003eCORRECT METHODS\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u0026bull; Antipyretic (syrup/suppository) prescribed by physician\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u0026bull; Tepid sponging\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u0026bull; Bathing\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u0026bull; Removing clothes\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u0026bull; Ventilating the room\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e71\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e44\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e34\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e35\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e20\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e34,8\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e21,6\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e16,7\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e17,2\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e9,8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan type=\"Underline\" class=\"Underline\" name=\"Emphasis\"\u003eINCORRECT METHODS\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u0026bull; Encouraging excessive fluid intake\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u0026bull; Giving antipyretics without physician\u0026rsquo;s advice\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u0026bull; Cough syrup\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u0026bull; Antibiotics\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u0026bull; Overdressing to induce sweating\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e21\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e87,5\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e12,5\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eDo you always keep antipyretic medication at home?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e87\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e97,8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2,2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"2\" rowspan=\"3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhich antipyretic medication do you use most frequently?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eAcetaminophen (Calpol, Parol, Minoset)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e64\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e56,1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eIbuprofen (Dolven, İburamin, Pedifen)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e50\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e43,9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eAcetylsalicylic acid (Aspirin)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"3\" rowspan=\"4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhat type of water do you use for cooling applications?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eIced water\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1,1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eWater with vinegar, etc.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e13\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e14\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eTap water\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e16\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e17,2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eLukewarm water\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e63\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e67,7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003ctfoot\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd colspan=\"4\"\u003eN\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;number of participants; % = percentage\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tfoot\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhen evaluating the preparations and preventive measures taken before febrile seizures, 76.3% of families reported that they measured their child\u0026rsquo;s temperature. Among these children, fever was below 38\u0026deg;C in 28 cases, while it was \u0026ge;\u0026thinsp;38\u0026deg;C in 61 cases. Regarding the methods used to reduce fever prior to the seizure, 35.8% of parents reported administering antipyretics as recommended by physicians, whereas the most common incorrect practice was encouraging excessive fluid intake (72.7%) (Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab4\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab4\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 4\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePreparations and Measures Taken Before Febrile Seizures\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/caption\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"4\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eQuestion\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eResponse\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eN\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e%\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eDid you measure your child\u0026rsquo;s temperature before the febrile seizure?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e68\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e76,3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e21\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e23,6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhat was your child\u0026rsquo;s temperature before the seizure?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;38\u0026deg;C\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e28\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e31,7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u0026gt;\u0026thinsp;38\u0026deg;C\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e61\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e68,3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhich methods did you use to reduce fever before the seizure?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan type=\"Underline\" class=\"Underline\" name=\"Emphasis\"\u003eCORRECT METHODS\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u0026bull; Antipyretic (syrup/suppository) prescribed by physician\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u0026bull; Tepid sponging\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u0026bull; Bathing\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u0026bull; Removing clothes\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u0026bull; Ventilating the room\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e58\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e35\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e28\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e30\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e11\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e35,8\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e21,6\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e17,3\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e18,5\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e6,8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan type=\"Underline\" class=\"Underline\" name=\"Emphasis\"\u003eINCORRECT METHODS\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u0026bull; Encouraging excessive fluid intake\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u0026bull; Giving antipyretics without physician\u0026rsquo;s advice\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u0026bull; Cough syrup\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u0026bull; Antibiotics\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u0026bull; Overdressing to induce sweating\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e72,7\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e27,3\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003ctfoot\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd colspan=\"4\"\u003eN\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;number of participants; % = percentage\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tfoot\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhen examining parental reactions, interventions, and management during febrile seizures, the most frequently reported parental emotion was fear (39.1%). The interval between the onset of fever and the occurrence of the febrile seizure was most commonly 1\u0026ndash;6 hours (30.3%). Regarding seizure duration, the majority lasted between 1\u0026ndash;5 minutes (48.3%).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAmong the appropriate interventions performed during febrile seizures, the most frequent was securing the airway (24.1%). Conversely, the most common inappropriate intervention was sprinkling water on the child (61.5%) (Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab5\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab5\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 5\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eParents\u0026rsquo; Reactions and Interventions\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/caption\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"4\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eQuestion\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eResponse\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eN\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e%\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"4\" rowspan=\"5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eHow long after the onset of fever did your child experience the seizure?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1\u0026ndash;10 minutes\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e20\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e22,5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e10\u0026ndash;30 minutes\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e10\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e11,2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e30 minutes-1 hour\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e16\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e18\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1\u0026ndash;6 hours\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e27\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e30,3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e6\u0026ndash;24 hours\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e16\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e18\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"4\" rowspan=\"5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhat was your first reaction when you realized your child was having a febrile seizure?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eFear\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e45\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e39,1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePanic\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e42\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e36,5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eSadness\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e11\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e9,6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eGuilt\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eCalm\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e17\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e14,8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"4\" rowspan=\"5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eApproximately how long did the febrile seizure last?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;1 minute\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e13,5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1\u0026ndash;5 minutes\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e43\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e48,3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5\u0026ndash;10 minutes\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e23\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e25,8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e10\u0026ndash;30 minutes\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e7,9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u0026gt;\u0026thinsp;30 minutes\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4,5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eDid you intervene during the febrile seizure?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan type=\"Underline\" class=\"Underline\" name=\"Emphasis\"\u003eCORRECT INTERVENTIONS\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u0026bull; Placing the child on a flat surface\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u0026bull; Turning the head to the side (lateral position)\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u0026bull; Securing the airway\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u0026bull; Preventing tongue from falling back\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u0026bull; Immersing the child in water\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e11\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e23\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e26\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e25\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e23\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e10,2\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e21,3\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e24,1\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e23,1\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e21,3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan type=\"Underline\" class=\"Underline\" name=\"Emphasis\"\u003eINCORRECT INTERVENTIONS\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u0026bull; Sprinkling water over the child\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u0026bull; Shaking the child\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u0026bull; Holding arms and legs to stop convulsions\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u0026bull; Forcing a hard object into the mouth\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e24\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e7\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e61,5\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e20,5\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e17,9\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003ctfoot\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd colspan=\"4\"\u003eN\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;number of participants; % = percentage\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tfoot\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhen evaluating the healthcare services and education provided by medical institutions after the child\u0026rsquo;s previous or current febrile seizure episodes, 84.3% of patients had experienced a febrile seizure before, while 47.1% reported only a single episode. The majority (89.9%) presented to a healthcare facility within the first 30 minutes after the seizure. The most common seizure type was simple febrile seizure (91%).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eRegarding the age at first seizure, 59.6% of cases occurred between 1 and 3 years of age. Concerning healthcare utilization, 98.9% of families reported presenting to a medical institution following the seizure. When asked about counseling received after the event, 60.7% of parents stated they had been provided with such a service. Most families (79.8%) reported that they were informed about the necessary preventive measures and appropriate practices. In addition, 86.5% of families stated that they were counseled about the risk of recurrence of febrile seizures (Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab6\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab6\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 6\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eHistory of Febrile Seizures, Healthcare Utilization, and Counseling Information\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/caption\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"4\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eQuestion\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eResponse\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eN\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e%\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"3\" rowspan=\"4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eHow many times did your child experience a febrile seizure before presenting to a healthcare facility?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eOnce\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e42\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e47,2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eTwice\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e21\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e23,6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eThree times\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e15\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e16,9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eMore than three times\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e11\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e12,3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"3\" rowspan=\"4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eHow long after the seizure did you present to a healthcare facility?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eWithin 30 minutes\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e80\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e89,9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e30 minutes\u0026ndash;2 hours\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1,1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2\u0026ndash;6 hours\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eSame day\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eHas your child experienced a seizure before?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e75\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e84,3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e14\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e15,7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhat type of seizure did your child experience?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eFebrile seizure (simple/complex)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e81\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e91\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eAfebrile seizure (simple/complex)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"3\" rowspan=\"4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eAt what age did your child have the first seizure?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eBefore 1 year\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e29\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e32,6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1\u0026ndash;3 years\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e53\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e59,6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3\u0026ndash;5 years\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4,5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eAfter 5 years\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3,4\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eDid you present to a healthcare facility after the first febrile seizure?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e88\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e98,9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1,1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eWere you provided counseling about febrile seizures at the healthcare facility?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e54\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e60,7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e35\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e39,3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eWere you informed about the risk of recurrence of febrile seizures?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e77\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e86,5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e13,5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eWere you informed about the necessary precautions and appropriate practices regarding febrile seizures?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e71\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e79,8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e18\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e20,2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003ctfoot\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd colspan=\"4\"\u003eN\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;number of participants; % = percentage\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tfoot\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"DISCUSSION","content":"\u003cp\u003eThis study highlights the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of parents of children with febrile seizures (FS), reflecting the persistence of \u0026ldquo;fever phobia\u0026rdquo; and management heterogeneity in our population, consistent with reports from different societies worldwide. Our findings demonstrate that, although fever is a physiological defense response, parents continue to harbor considerable anxiety and misconceptions, with notable variability in their initial approaches and interventions during seizures (\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR3\" citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e). Such variability is not only related to families but also partly influenced by inconsistencies in the knowledge and attitudes of healthcare professionals (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAlthough the definition of FS as the most common convulsive event in children aged 6 months\u0026ndash;5 years with fever\u0026thinsp;\u0026ge;\u0026thinsp;38\u0026deg;C in the absence of central nervous system infection is well established, many parents interpret fever as a direct marker of disease severity and as a predictor of potential neurological sequelae (\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR5\" citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e). In contrast, the literature indicates that simple FS generally has favorable long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes, with incidence rates reported as 2\u0026ndash;5% in Western populations, 7\u0026ndash;10% in Japan, and even higher in some regions (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e). Large-scale epidemiological data from Turkey similarly show prevalence rates within this range and identify recurrence risk factors such as younger age, short fever duration, low fever threshold, and positive family history (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR8\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e8\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Fever phobia\u0026rdquo; is characterized by parental beliefs that fever may cause brain damage, epilepsy, or death, leading to excessive practices such as administering antipyretics in the absence of fever or waking children from sleep to give medication (\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR3\" citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e). The high levels of fear and panic responses observed in our study align with this phenomenon and are consistent with reports from other countries (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e). Moreover, variability in adherence to guidelines among healthcare professionals may contribute to unnecessary investigations, inappropriate treatments, and the dissemination of inaccurate messages (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOur findings on the definition and measurement of fever align with guideline recommendations emphasizing the importance of standardized measurement sites and devices, while discouraging subjective assessments such as tactile evaluation (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e). The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has underscored that fever should be viewed as a symptom causing discomfort rather than a disease itself, and that the therapeutic goal should be improving comfort rather than achieving normothermia (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e). In our study, parental definitions of fever thresholds varied between 37.5\u0026ndash;39\u0026deg;C, further highlighting the need for education and standardization (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e10\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn fever management, antipyretics and physical cooling methods are the most frequently used interventions. However, systematic reviews of randomized trials have clearly shown that antipyretics do not prevent recurrence of FS (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e9\u003c/span\u003e). Despite this evidence, both parents and some physicians continue to attribute \u0026ldquo;seizure-preventive\u0026rdquo; effects to antipyretics, which increases the risks of inappropriate combinations, alternating regimens, and dosing errors (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e10\u003c/span\u003e). Recent surveys from Turkey also demonstrate that such misconceptions, along with over-the-counter and pharmacist-directed use of medications, remain prevalent (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e12\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e13\u003c/span\u003e). These findings underscore the necessity of explicitly communicating to parents that the assumption of \u0026ldquo;antipyretics\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;seizure prevention\u0026rdquo; is not scientifically supported (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e9\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eParental first-aid practices during seizures revealed that essential correct steps\u0026mdash;such as placing the child in a safe lateral or supine position, avoiding insertion of objects into the mouth, and refraining from restraining the limbs\u0026mdash;were not universally known. Conversely, harmful practices such as immersing the child in water, applying cologne or vinegar, or inserting rigid objects into the mouth were still reported at considerable frequencies. Similar inappropriate practices have been described in surveys conducted at other centers (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e12\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e14\u003c/span\u003e). Current guidelines recommend benzodiazepine administration and urgent referral only for seizures lasting longer than 5 minutes, while for shorter events, emphasis is placed on ensuring safe positioning and protection from injury (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e). Accordingly, strengthening parents\u0026rsquo; skills in seizure first aid through brief, clear, and repeated educational interventions appears critical (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOur findings are consistent with previous studies demonstrating the effectiveness of educational interventions. Both written materials and interactive training sessions have been shown to reduce parental anxiety, improve thermometer use accuracy, decrease medication dosing errors, and limit unnecessary emergency visits (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e). Therefore, emergency consultations, outpatient visits, discharge summaries, and digital materials should be systematically utilized as \u0026ldquo;micro-education\u0026rdquo; opportunities (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e). To minimize heterogeneity among physicians, short institutional training sessions and standardized information forms may also be beneficial (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn the Turkish context, longitudinal surveys and recent data suggest partial improvements in parental knowledge; however, misconceptions\u0026mdash;such as perceiving fever as inherently harmful, believing that antipyretics prevent seizures, and resorting to harmful practices during convulsions\u0026mdash;remain prevalent (\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR13 CR14\" citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e12\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e15\u003c/span\u003e). This persistence underscores the necessity for repeated, multi-channel educational strategies (clinical settings, family practice, pharmacy-based interventions, preschool/school health programs, digital resources) rather than single-session interventions (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e The strengths of our study include the use of comprehensive, real-world questions addressing parental practices and the ability to compare findings with other local data across different centers. Limitations include the cross-sectional design precluding causal inference; reliance on self-reported data, which is subject to recall bias (particularly regarding fever level and interventions before seizures); the limited generalizability due to being single-/few-center; and the lack of long-term follow-up on recurrence or development of epilepsy (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR8\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e8\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eImplications for practice include: (i) standardization of discharge education packages, (ii) provision of concise visual aids and dosing charts for parents, (iii) integration of consistent messaging across family physicians, pharmacists, and emergency services, (iv) explicit communication that antipyretics do not prevent recurrence, (v) demonstration of seizure first-aid techniques, and (vi) targeted counseling for high-risk groups (early-onset seizures, family history, short fever duration, low fever threshold) (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR8\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e8\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e9\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn conclusion, our study demonstrates persistent gaps in parental knowledge and practices regarding fever and FS, highlighting the ongoing presence of \u0026ldquo;fever phobia\u0026rdquo; across cultures and healthcare settings. Repeated, guideline-based, and interactive educational strategies represent effective tools to address these gaps (\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR3\" citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e). Parents should be provided with clear, consistent, and practical messages emphasizing the generally benign nature of FS, the limited role of antipyretics and antiepileptics, and the importance of safe first-aid measures (\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR5\" citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e9\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"CONCLUSION","content":"\u003cp\u003eIn this study, the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of parents of children diagnosed with febrile seizures were evaluated regarding fever and seizure management. Our findings indicate that despite fever being a physiological response, the majority of families still harbor significant anxiety and misconceptions, collectively referred to as \u0026ldquo;fever phobia.\u0026rdquo; Particularly notable were the lack of standardization in fever measurement, misbeliefs regarding the seizure-preventive role of antipyretics, and the persistence of inappropriate first-aid practices during seizures.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhen compared with the literature, our results are consistent with both similar surveys conducted in T\u0026uuml;rkiye and international data. Most families continue to perceive fever as potentially harmful to their children, which leads to inappropriate practices and unnecessary healthcare visits.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn conclusion, although febrile seizures generally follow a benign course, parents exhibit high levels of anxiety and knowledge gaps. Therefore, the implementation of regular, repeated, and multidimensional educational programs for families is of critical importance. These programs should be delivered both within healthcare facilities and through community-based platforms (family practice, pharmacies, schools, digital resources), emphasizing correct first-aid practices and clarifying the limited role of antipyretics. Such an approach is expected to reduce parental anxiety, prevent harmful practices, and improve the overall management of febrile seizures for both families and the healthcare system.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Declarations","content":"\u003ch2\u003eAuthor Contribution\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eA.T. conceptualized and designed the study, supervised data collection, performed the statistical analysis, and drafted the initial manuscript. B.K. contributed to data acquisition, literature review, and critical revision of the manuscript. All authors read and approved the final version of the manuscript and agree to be accountable for all aspects of the work.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMarcy SM, Kohl KS, Dagan R, Nalin D, Blum M, Jones MC, et al. Fever as an adverse event following immunization: case definition and guidelines of data collection, analysis, and presentation. Vaccine. 2004;22(4):551-6.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePitoli PJ, Duarte BK, Fragoso AA, Damaceno DG, Marin MJS. Fever in children: parents' search for urgent and emergency services. Cien Saude Colet. 2021;26(2):445\u0026thinsp;\u0026ndash;\u0026thinsp;54.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eClericetti CM, Milani GP, Bianchetti MG, Simonetti GD, Fossali EF, Balestra AM, et al. Systematic review finds that fever phobia is a worldwide issue among caregivers and healthcare providers. Acta Paediatr. 2019;108(6):1393-7.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSullivan JE, Farrar HC; Section on Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Committee on Drugs. Fever and antipyretic use in children. Pediatrics. 2011;127(3):580-7.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSawires R, Buttery J, Fahey M. A review of febrile seizures: recent advances in understanding of febrile seizure pathophysiology and commonly implicated viral triggers. Front Pediatr. 2021;9:801321.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSmith DK, Sadler KP, Benedum M. Febrile seizures: risks, evaluation, and prognosis. Am Fam Physician. 2019;99(7):445\u0026thinsp;\u0026ndash;\u0026thinsp;50.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBashiri FA, Al Shalawi AA, Hamad MH, Al Saif HF, Saeed E, Al Shehri AF, et al. Assessment of physicians\u0026rsquo; knowledge and attitudes in the management of febrile seizures. Neurosciences (Riyadh). 2018;23(4):314-9.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCanpolat M, Per H, Gumus H, Elmali F, Kumandas S. Investigating the prevalence of febrile convulsion in Kayseri, Turkey: an assessment of the risk factors for recurrence of febrile convulsion and for development of epilepsy. Seizure. 2018;55:36\u0026ndash;47.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRosenbloom E, Finkelstein Y, Adams-Webber T, Kozer E. Do antipyretics prevent the recurrence of febrile seizures in children? A systematic review of randomized controlled trials and meta-analysis. Eur J Paediatr Neurol. 2013;17(6):585-8.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eKelly M, Sahm LJ, Shiely F, O\u0026rsquo;Sullivan R, McGillicuddy A, McCarthy S. Parental knowledge, attitudes and beliefs regarding fever in children: an interview study. BMC Public Health. 2016;16:540.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eO\u0026rsquo;Neill-Murphy K, Liebman M, Barnsteiner JH. Fever education: does it reduce parent fever anxiety? Pediatr Emerg Care. 2001;17(1):47\u0026ndash;51.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAkca G, Akca U, Caliskan B. Parents\u0026rsquo; attitudes and beliefs about fever and febrile convulsions. Firat Med J. 2024;29(1):34\u0026ndash;40.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eKılı\u0026ccedil; R, Tolu Kendir \u0026Ouml;, Sarı G\u0026ouml;kay S, \u0026Ccedil;elik T, \u0026Ouml;zkaya AK, Yılmaz HL. Knowledge and attitudes of parents regarding fever in children. Turk J Pediatr Emerg Intensive Care Med. 2016;13(2):76\u0026ndash;85.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCeceli G. Knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of families of children with febrile convulsions [specialization thesis]. Istanbul: T.C. Ministry of Health, Haydarpaşa Numune Training and Research Hospital; 2008.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTanrı\u0026ouml;ver M. Evaluation of parents\u0026rsquo; knowledge, attitudes, and coping behaviors regarding epileptic seizures [specialization thesis]. Ankara: T.C. General Staff, G\u0026uuml;lhane Military Medical Academy, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Family Medicine; 2012.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ol\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":false,"hideJournal":true,"highlight":"","institution":"","isAcceptedByJournal":false,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":false,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true},"keywords":"febrile seizure, fever, parents, knowledge level, fever phobia","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-7786331/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-7786331/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003ch2\u003eObjective\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of parents of children with febrile seizures regarding fever and seizure management, and to compare the findings with data from the literature.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eMaterials and Methods\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis cross-sectional survey was conducted at the Pediatric Neurology Outpatient Clinic of Kocaeli Derince Training and Research Hospital. Parents of children aged 9\u0026ndash;66 months who experienced febrile seizures were included. A total of 89 families completed a structured 26-item questionnaire covering the definition and management of fever, parental behaviors before-during-after febrile seizures, and experiences with healthcare services.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eResults\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eOf the respondents, 62.9% were mothers, and 61.8% were parents of male children. Overall, 74.2% reported prior knowledge of febrile seizures, most frequently obtained from healthcare professionals (61.8%). The most common fever threshold reported was 37.5\u0026deg;C (49.5%). While 94.4% always kept a thermometer at home, electronic thermometers were the most commonly used (62.4%). Acetaminophen was the most frequently preferred antipyretic (56.1%), and lukewarm sponging was the most common non-pharmacological method (21.6%). Incorrect practices included encouraging excessive fluid intake (87.5%). During seizures, parents most frequently reported fear (39.1%) and panic (36.5%) as immediate reactions. The majority (91%) stated that their child had experienced a simple febrile seizure. Among those presenting to healthcare facilities, 60.7% received counseling, and 86.5% were informed about the risk of recurrence.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eConclusion\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe findings indicate that \u0026ldquo;fever phobia\u0026rdquo; persists among parents, with persistent gaps in knowledge regarding the definition of fever, the role of antipyretics, and appropriate management during seizures. Incorrect practices not only threaten child safety but also impose additional burdens on the healthcare system. Therefore, structured, repeated, and multidimensional educational programs are essential to ensure accurate parental knowledge, clarify the limited role of antipyretics, and emphasize safe first-aid interventions.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Parents Regarding Febrile Seizures and Fever Management: A Cross-sectional Survey Study","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2025-10-22 14:48:35","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-7786331/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"8954fa88-1cd1-48a5-b365-ca0cb29df6f7","owner":[],"postedDate":"October 22nd, 2025","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"posted","subjectAreas":[],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2025-10-27T14:35:12+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2025-10-22 14:48:35","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-7786331","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-7786331","identity":"rs-7786331","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"8U1c8b4HqxoKbykW_rLl7","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}