A Narrative Inquiry on Mothers’ Knowledge and Preventive Practices Regarding Upper Respiratory Tract Infections in Under-Five Children

Abstract

Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (URTIs) remain a primary health challenge for pediatric populations, particularly in high-density communities. This study explored the lived experiences, knowledge, and preventive practices of mothers managing URTIs in children under five years old in Barangay San Nicolas, San Pablo City. Utilizing a narrative inquiry research design, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 purposely selected mothers to uncover the meanings behind their caregiving decisions. The narratives were examined to identify recurring experiences, patterns, and meanings related to mothers’ knowledge, practices, and decision-making in managing URTIs. Trustworthiness was enhanced through participant validation and careful documentation of the research process. The results identified a “layered response” to illness, wherein mothers initially employed traditional home remedies, such as oregano and calamansi, based on experiential knowledge before seeking professional medical consultation. While mothers demonstrated awareness of environmental triggers such as dust and smoke, structural barriers, including financial instability and inconsistent medicine supplies at local health centers, often hindered optimal care. The study concludes that maternal decision-making is a dynamic process shaped by a blend of traditional wisdom, socio-economic realities, and interactions with healthcare providers. By capturing mothers’ personal narratives, this study contributes a contextualized understanding of childhood URTI management within a community setting. Integrating nursing, public health, and socio-economic perspectives, the findings suggest that community health interventions should strengthen partnerships between health workers and mothers, improve access to essential healthcare resources, and support timely recognition and management of pediatric URTIs.