Stomized children care practices: narratives of relatives.

OBJECTIVES

to understand the practices adopted by relatives regarding ostomized children care.

METHODS

qualitative approach, conducted with 11 relatives of ostomized children. Methodological framework was used as narrative technique; NVivo® software for data categorization and information analysis; content analysis technique.

RESULTS

participants revealed unpreparedness in dealing with children, lack of knowledge about handling materials and equipment inherent to ostomy and challenges faced in the daily life of children in school. They are unanimous in telling they feel encouraged and strengthened by receiving support from nurses in child care. They suggested the development of strategies to guide ostomized children care, such as educational material use.

CONCLUSIONS

to understand family members' experience made it possible to support training and qualification of nursing professionals, and to establish priorities in care. Evidence found may contribute to reflections that aid health promotion and prevention of complications in ostomized children care.