<b>The presence of grandparents in the quotidian of families with infants born at risk</b> - doi: 10.4025/cienccuidsaude.v10i3.17383

Abstract

The objective of the study was to identify the grandparents' role in the process of care given to an infant born at risk. This is a descriptive-exploratory study carried out with families of infants born at risk in the municipal district of Maringa - PR from May 1 to October 31, 2008. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews accomplished at the individual’s domiciles in six different moments. The process of content interpretation was used as support for the interpretation of data. The results showed that the mother is the main provider of the child care and that the support received is little, however significant, mainly in the difficult moments. The grandparents' presence allows the mothers to feel safer and supported on the baby care process. However, the lack of the same support turns them more fragile to face the task. It is concluded that there is a need of valuing the grandparents' role in the extended family process considering their participation provides better life quality for mother and the baby, especially the ones at risk who need more frequent assistance.