Use of Antibiotics in Acute Watery Diarrhoea Among < 5 Children Prior Admission to The Paediatric Ward of A Medical College Hospital in A Rural Area of Bangladesh

Background: Acute watery diarrhea remains a significant health concern for children under five, particularly in low-resource settings. This study investigates the association between maternal education, socioeconomic factors, and the management of acute watery diarrhea, including antibiotic usage, in this vulnerable age group. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among < 5 children presenting with acute watery diarrhea at the paediatric ward of Kumudini Hospital. Data were collected prospectively on basic demographic characteristics, maternal education levels, and details regarding antibiotic use prior admission to paediatric ward, which were analyzed to determine patterns and influences on treatment approaches. Result: The study included 180 children, predominantly males (58.89%). Most families had monthly income more than 10,000 BDT. The primary education level for most mothers was secondary (58.89%). Antibiotics were prescribed in 139 cases, with 52.51% by registered doctors and 44.60% by non-registered practitioners. Antibiotics were most commonly administered within the first three days of illness (69.78%) and were generally used for less than seven days (66.18%). Children of illiterate mothers had the highest antibiotic use (52.51%), and a substantial reliance on non-registered practitioners for prescriptions was noted, especially among children whose mothers had primary education. Conclusion: The study highlights a significant impact of maternal education on the treatment of acute watery diarrhea in children under five.