Objective: To describe the current status and examine the association between practices and knowledge, attitudes regarding acute diarrhea among mothers of children under five at Hai Phong Children’s Hospital.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 230 mothers from January to April 2026.
Results: The proportions of adequate knowledge, positive attitudes, and appropriate practices were 80.87%, 76.52%, and 75.22%, respectively. Knowledge of causes and dehydration was relatively high, but treatment knowledge was limited (5.73% correct for zinc use). Although most mothers had positive attitudes, 42.60% had incorrect beliefs about diet. While practice was at a moderate level, significant limitations remained, as only 21.30% of mothers continued oral rehydration when children were uncooperative. Knowledge and attitudes were significantly associated with practice (p < 0.001); knowledge (OR = 14.7; 95% CI: 6.8–31.8) and attitudes (OR = 4.9; 95% CI: 2.5–9.6) increased the likelihood of appropriate practice.
Conclusion: Despite good knowledge and attitudes, a gap remains between awareness and practice, highlighting the need for practical health education interventions.