Tingkat Pengetahuan dan Perilaku Orang Tua terhadap Penggunaan Antibiotik pada Anak di UPT Puskesmas Kota Matsum Kota Medan

Abstract

Background: Infectious diseases remain among the most significant global health challenges, accompanied by a notable rise in antibiotic consumption. Misuse or overuse of antibiotics can contribute to the development of antibiotic resistance, posing a serious worldwide health risk—particularly for children, whose immune systems are more susceptible. Objectives: This research seeks to assess the knowledge and behavior regarding antibiotic use, examine how respondent characteristics influence these factors, and explore the correlation between knowledge and behavior related to antibiotic use in children at UPT Puskesmas Kota Matsum, Medan City. Methods: This study employed a descriptive design with a cross-sectional approach, collecting data via questionnaires completed by parents of children who have received or are currently undergoing antibiotic treatment. The research was carried out from December 2024 to February 2025. Data were analyzed using validity and reliability tests, followed by statistical analyses including the Mann-Whitney test, Kruskal-Wallis test, and Spearman correlation test. Results: The results of the study of 360 respondents (respondent rate: 90.45%) showed that the majority (73.06%) of parents had a good level of knowledge, enough (25.56%), and less (1.39%). The majority (53.61%) showed good, fair (45.83%), and poor (0.56%) antibiotic use behavior. There was a weak relationship between knowledge level and antibiotic use behavior with a correlation (r = 0.144). Conclusion: Most parents demonstrate a good level of knowledge and behavior concerning antibiotic use in children; however, improvements are still needed, particularly in areas such as proper disposal of antibiotics and actions to take if side effects arise.