‘You can be as vigilant as you can, yet they make their way in’: A descriptive study of parent and caregiver perspectives towards keeping children safe from button batteries

Abstract

Objectives Button batteries pose a significant threat to young children, and parents and caregivers play an important role in keeping children safe from button batteries, especially in the home environment. However, little is known regarding parent or caregiver perspectives on button battery safety, in particular, the threat they pose to children. The aim of this study was to examine perspectives on button battery safety to enable tailored prevention strategies and to examine parent and caregiver perspectives on button battery safety in the home. Methods One-hundred and seventy-four parents and caregivers of children aged 0–5 completed a cross-sectional online survey. Distribution occurred via social media. The survey contained multiple-choice questions pertaining to button battery knowledge and attitudes. Results Most respondents recognised the dangers of button battery ingestion, yet only 37% knew of button battery ingestion symptoms. While 68% knew of household items containing button batteries, 21% were aware of product-recall information sources. Approximately 64% understood immediate post-ingestion steps, but only 31% were familiar with first-aid procedures. From an attitudinal standpoint, 95% understood the importance of child supervision around button batteries, 78% prioritised battery safety in toy purchases, and 17% found current safety labels unsatisfactory. This study provides a foundation for ongoing investigation of parent and caregiver perspectives on button battery home safety. Conclusion Ongoing, comprehensive education and public-safety campaigns are needed to rectify gaps in knowledge regarding button battery safety, and to reduce the risk of button battery ingestion in children