Taking care of families of technology dependent children and adolescents: experience of nursing students - doi: 10.4025/cienccuidsaude.v11i3.20261

Abstract

This is a reflection from the experience of nursing students during the development of the extension project with the objective to develop and improve knowledge and care practices for technology dependent children/adolescents and their families, and empower health professionals to care for their clients. The study was carried out from September to December 2009 in a pediatric hospital of southern Brazil. It was found that the needs of the families are to understand how the technological artifacts work and how to manage them, how to prevent pain and infections, in how to organize their routine. It was evident the acceptance, confidence, interest and recognition for the work and the reward in knowledge and management of the abilities. Support for families, children and adolescents brought benefits to them, as favored personal and professional development of nursing students.