A Proposed Model based on Information Technology for Parents’ Education to Improve Child Safety

In children under the age of 5 years, unintentional injuries are the main cause of death. Parents play an important role in preventing these injuries. In all around the world, various technology-based interventions have been applied for improving parents’ knowledge and behavior regarding children safety. The aim of this study was to propose a technology-based model for promoting child safety. This applied-descriptive study was conducted in two parts. In the first section, using a questionnaire, 20 physicians were asked to determine the most important information and educational elements. In the second part, the available technologies related to the prevention of unintentional injuries were investigated in terms of their impact on parents' knowledge and attitudes and finally, a technology was selected for the proposed model. The findings in the first part included demographic data, clinical information, training needs including preventive behaviors, making environmental safety and first aid. In the second part, 10 technologies including kiosk, Internet/ web-based programs, computer software and mobile application were found. Mobile applications were the newest applied technologies in this area that had positive effect in change of behavior and knowledge. Therefore, using this technology, a model based on information technology was proposed. Use of information technology, through mobile applications, can provide an opportunity for improving parental knowledge and behavior toward child safety.