Effect of Training of Adolescents on Household Environmental Safety from Childhood Injuries in a Rural Area of Delhi

Abstract

Introduction: The environment poses an important risk in the causation of injuries in children. Simple measures in improving the safety of the domestic and peri-domestic environment can go a long way in preventing injuries. This study was conducted to assess the effect of training of the adolescents in the families, on the household environmental safety regarding childhood injuries. Materials and Methods: A pre- and post-intervention study was conducted over 16 months, on 116 families of two villages of Delhi. Data were collected regarding domestic and peri-domestic environments along with danger points with respect to injuries, of the enrolled houses, during the pre- and post-intervention phases of 4 months each. The intervention comprised training of the eldest adolescent of the family, on causes of common injuries and role of environment in injury causation. Scores were assigned to all relevant aspects, and the total environmental safety scores were calculated. The comparison was made between pre- and post-intervention scores of the two areas. Results: Environmental safety scores were more than 70% in both areas at the baseline with no difference between the two areas. In the intervention area, there was statistically significant improvement of scores after the intervention, in the domestic environment and danger signs within the houses. Conclusion: Training adolescents about the prevention of injuries and motivating them to remain vigilant over domestic environment are effective in bringing about significant change in the household environment with regard to safety from injuries in children. Repeated visits by health workers also increase awareness and change the household environment making it safer for children.