Adherence behavior in an acute pediatric hand trauma population: A pilot study of parental report of adherence levels and influencing factors.

Introduction: Descriptive and cross-sectional study.

Purpose Of The Study: The hand is a common site of injury in children; however, little is known regarding adherence to hand trauma management in this population.

Purpose: This pilot study aimed to describe adherence to plaster slab immobilization, advice regarding return to sport, appointment attendance, and the factors influencing nonadherence.

Method: Forty-seven parents of children with hand trauma completed an online questionnaire reporting their child's adherence to the initial medical management.

Results: Parents reported that 34% (16 of 47) of children were adherent to all aspects of management. Nonadherence with plaster slab immobilization was reported by 38% (18 of 47), and 45% (21 of 47) reported nonadherence with advice regarding return to sport. Hygiene, discomfort, and restriction were the most common reasons for plaster removal. Belief that sport would not cause harm and social factors influenced return to sport against medical advice.

Conclusion: Nonadherence behavior is commonly reported in children with acute hand trauma.

Level Of Evidence: 4.