OKIDO, Aline Cristiane Cavicchioli; HAYASHIDA, Miyeko    LIMA, Regina Aparecida Garcia. Profile of technology-dependent children in Ribeirão Preto-SP. Rev. bras. crescimento desenvolv. hum. []. 2012, 22, 3, pp.291-296. ISSN 0104-1282.

The aim of this descriptive and exploratory research with a quantitative approach was to characterize technology-dependent children living in Ribeirão Preto - SP regarding gestation and birth conditions, origin of the special health needs and care demands. Participants were 102 mothers or responsible caregivers. Data were collected between January and April 2011 through the application of a form during home visits. The results revealed that 57% of the children are male; the predominant age range was between 1 and 4 years; 7.8% of the mothers had no prenatal follow-up; 96% were born in hospitals; 63.7% through c-section and, in 29.3% of cases, the children were premature. As for the origin of the special health needs, 65.7% had some congenital problem, 30.4% experienced problems during delivery and/or in the neonatal period and 30.4% experienced problems during the lifetime, defined as acquired causes. Regarding special care demands, all children display technological care demands, 92 need medication care, 74 developmental care and 102 modified habitual care. The study appoints relevant data to broaden these clients' visibility in official rates and public policies, so as to guarantee qualified and comprehensive care delivery.

: pediatric nursing; child care; chronic illness.

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