Knowledge, Practice and Associated Factors to Ward Hypoglycemia Prevention Among Caregivers of Diabetic Children: Cross Sectional Study Design

Abstract Background Hypoglycemia is an acute medical condition that occurs when blood sugar falls below 70 mg/dl. It is a common and potentially life-threatening complication in children with diabetes. Caregivers play a crucial role in managing and caring for their child's diabetes. This study aimed to assess hypoglycemia prevention knowledge, practices, and associated factors among caregivers of diabetic children during follow-up at the Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital Pediatric Endocrinology Clinic in 2024. Methods An institutionally based cross-sectional study was carried out between September 2023 and April 2024. A structured questionnaire was used to gather data, and statistical tools for social sciences software, version 25.0, were used for analysis. The dependent and independent variables were tested for relationships via bivariate and multivariate analyses. Results Of the 162 enrolled caregivers of diabetic children, 50.6% were mothers, and 81.5% were urban dwellers. In this study, thirty (18.5%) of the caregivers had good knowledge, and sixty-eight (42%) of them had good practices for preventing hypoglycemia. Formal training and education programs were significantly associated with good knowledge (AOR = 17.9, CI: 4.6–70.2). Good hypoglycemia prevention knowledge was significantly associated with hypoglycemia prevention practices (AOR = 0.32; CI: 0.13–0.76). Conclusion Knowledge and practices related to hypoglycemia prevention among caregivers of diabetic children were low. Providing formal training and education to caregivers and counseling regarding hypoglycemia during their visit are essential for improving their knowledge and practice in hypoglycemia prevention.