Caregivers' perspectives when evaluating nonprescription medication utilization in children.

Children's caregivers must be able to decide upon or solicit accurate information related to the appropriateness of nonprescription medication selection for children. Informed decision making is paramount considering the increasing number of available nonprescription products and patient safety. This 6-month study was conducted to evaluate caregivers' knowledge base regarding nonprescription products for their children. Secondary goals included determining how caregivers' demographics are associated with decision making, identifying sources that caregivers use for product selection, and evaluating caregivers' adherence to labeled dosing recommendations. Our survey found the majority of caregivers selected at least 1 inappropriate nonprescription medication for their child. However, most caregivers did seek information from health care providers and routinely follow product labeling. Health care professionals should be knowledgeable on the appropriate use of medication. There is a significant need to question and to educate caregivers on nonprescription medication use in children.