BABY-CHECK IN THE INNER-CITY - USE AND VALUE TO PARENTS

'Baby Check', an information booklet designed to aid assessment of acu tely ill babies, was given to a group of socioeconomically disadvantag ed families from one inner city general practice. Parents' perceptions and use of the booklet were explored in a qualitative study based on audiotaped interviews with 42 parents of 34 babies under 6 months old. Most families (26) used Baby Check spontaneously. Parents found that Baby Check was helpful, reduced anxiety and increased confidence copin g with illness, seeking medical advice and communicating with doctors. Parents experienced some difficulties, e.g. they had concerns about a check for rectal temperature and they sought more information and adv ice about common illnesses. Parents valued and were empowered by acces s to 'medical' information. Further evaluation and consultation with p arents is required to ensure that information is relevant to their nee ds.