Vol. 2, Issue 3, Part J (2016)

Abstract
Gastroenteritis is a serious problem existing globally and continues to be an important cause of morbidity and mortality. In fact, there is new shift of numbers of deaths from 7,000 to 17,000 per year according to WHO (2011). Hence incur great attention from all health sector should be set to prevent direct consequences. This study assessed the maternal knowledge on gastroenteritis, and home care management among marginalized communities in Catbalogan City province of Samar, Philippines. This investigation utilized a descriptive correlational design. The study revealed an alarming result that out of 342 mothers who participated in the study, 52.33% demonstrated “poor knowledge” and 11.40% only have “very good knowledge” on gastroenteritis. Moreover, the result of this study suggest that there is a significant relationship between the respondents educational attainment and number of children to their knowledge on gastroenteritis. Coordinating with DOH and WHO must be set for intensifying their programs to be more effective in increasing mothers’ knowledge and home care management on gastroenteritis. Hence, will lessen the number of mortality and morbidity rates of children. Furthermore, extension services focusing on health education regarding prevention and management on gastroenteritis is also recommended.