Patterns of use of oral rehydration therapy in Srinagar (Garhwal), Uttaranchal, India.

A study was conducted to assess the knowledge of preparing packet oral rehydration solution (ORS) and home-made salt-sugar solution (SSS) among mothers in Srinagar (Garhwal), Uttaranchal. Two hundred and twenty-five mothers were interviewed. Only a small proportion recognized the ORS packets (18.66%) and only 17.77% mentioned the correct method of preparing a solution from a packet (even after reading the instructions on the packet). Homemade SSS was adequately discussed by only 6.22% mothers and they were taught to correctly prepare and administer ORS and home-made SSS. After the educational programme, significant (P < 0.001) improvement in their knowledge was found. Eighty-six per cent knew the correct method of preparing packet ORS and 80.88% the correct method of preparing homemade SSS (P < 0.001). Interventions of this kind should be carried out to improve the knowledge and skills of mothers in treating childhood diarrhoea.