Exploring caregivers’ perception of wearable technology for sepsis management for children aged under 5: a scenario-based qualitative study in Dhaka, Bangladesh

Abstract

Background: Sepsis is a condition when the body's extreme immunological reaction to an infection can harm organs, resulting in shock, organ failure, or even death if treatment is not received. People all across the world are affected by sepsis, although lower-middle-income nations (LMICs) have far higher incidence and fatality rates. Notably, neonatal sepsis is a major cause of death in these areas, accounting for 99% of infant deaths worldwide. Bangladesh continues to have a serious problem with pediatric sepsis mortality, especially in areas with low resources. Before a specific sepsis treatment management was implemented, the death rate for high-risk children with sepsis at Dhaka Hospital was startlingly high, approaching 60% which demonstrates the need for urgent standardized treatments for vulnerable pediatric populations. Objective: This study aims to explore caregivers' perceptions of children under five about wearable technology for sepsis control. Methods: An exploratory design using a qualitative method was followed to conduct this study. The study population was the caregivers of children under five hospitalized for any illness including sepsis from Sajida Foundation Hospital at Keraniganj in Dhaka. A purposive sampling technique was finalized to make the sample size. To find out how caregivers felt about the wearable device for sepsis management, 10 IDIs (In-depth Interviews) were done until the data was saturated. Data collection was done following the Theoretical Framework of acceptability. For analyzing data framework analysis was followed. Results: This study observed the possibilities and difficulties of using a wearable device to monitor children's health in settings with limited resources. Its noninvasive, user-friendly design and efficient vital sign monitoring, capacity to lower hospital visits, and conformed to Islamic principles helped caregivers build confidence and trust to use the device in the future. Caregivers were concerned about the hospital stay due to their work, household chores, and caring for other children as well as the device’s signal sound. Despite recognizing its benefits, some remained hesitant due to conservative views. Conclusion: The wearable device's non-invasive, user-friendly design demonstrated potential in enhancing children's health monitoring; nevertheless, greater acceptance and implementation require addressing caregivers' concerns and practical challenges.