Parental preferences regarding administration of an animal-derived versus a synthetic medication to newborn infants

AIM: We examined the perceptions of parents with regard to animal-derived versus synthetic medications of comparable efficacy. We hypothesized that this issue is a concern in neonatal care and that the perceptions of parents from one geographical location would be similar to those of another. METHODS: A survey was distributed to parents of neonates admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit of a southeastern hospital. Of 153 parents surveyed, 150 (98%) responded. More mothers than fathers completed the surveys (113 vs. 34). Fifty-six percent of participants indicated a college or higher education; 40% had an income of $51,000/yr or higher. Thirtyfour percent of parents had concerns about animal-derived medications, 41% preferred a synthetic medication of equivalent efficacy, and 69% would like to be informed if a medication was animal-derived. CONCLUSION: Parents have concerns about exposing neonates to animal-derived medication and wish to be informed if an animal-derived medication is being considered.