Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Parents in Saudi Arabia Regarding Pediatric Otitis Media: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract Background: Otitis media (OM) is a common pediatric condition that can lead to hearing impairment and speech delay if not properly managed. Parents play a vital role in early recognition and timely healthcare-seeking behavior. Objective: To evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of parents in Saudi Arabia regarding pediatric OM. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 462 parents using a validated online questionnaire. Data were collected on sociodemographic characteristics, parental knowledge, attitudes toward antibiotic use, and ear care practices. Knowledge levels were evaluated using a structured scoring system. Results: Only 19.7% of parents demonstrated adequate knowledge. Higher knowledge scores were significantly associated with higher educational attainment ( P = 0.001), the presence of a healthcare worker in the household ( P = 0.049), and reliance on medical professionals for information ( P = 0.001). Unsafe practices were common, particularly the routine use of cotton swabs (56.1%). Vaccination coverage for pneumococcal and influenza infections was also suboptimal (47.8%). Parents with good knowledge showed a significantly greater tendency toward rational antibiotic use (67.0% vs. 53.4%; P = 0.049) and a higher level of concern about long-term auditory and speech complications ( P = 0.007). Conclusion: Parental knowledge of pediatric OM in Saudi Arabia remains inadequate despite generally positive attitudes. Targeted educational interventions are essential to improve awareness, promote safe ear care practices, enhance vaccination uptake, and encourage rational antibiotic use.