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

Abstract Study Design Descriptive, cross-sectional study Purpose The hand is a common site of injury in children, however little is known regarding adherence to hand trauma management in this population. Methods This pilot study aimed to describe adherence to: plaster slab immobilisation; advice regarding return to sport; appointment attendance; and the factors influencing non-adherence. 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% (16/47) of children were adherent to all aspects of management. Non-adherence with plaster slab immobilisation was reported by 38% (18/47), and 45% (21/47) reported non-adherence 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 Non-adherence behaviour is commonly reported in children with acute hand trauma.