Intervening factors for nursing care in the feeding of hospitalized children undergoing chemotherapy

Abstract

Objective: to describe the intervening factors for nursing care in the feeding of hospitalized children undergoing antineoplastic chemotherapy. Method: qualitative, descriptive study conducted in a public pediatric university hospital in the state of Rio de Janeiro, from October to December 2015. Seventeen nursing professionals were interviewed, and data were subjected to Thematic Analysis. Results: multiprofessional teamwork, understanding of family and interaction, bonding and conversation with the child were considered facilitating factors. In turn, provision of inappropriate food by the family and hospital rules regarding the meal hours of children and caregivers were pointed as difficulties. Conclusion: The feeding of children on chemotherapy, as daily and habitual care, is a challenge for nursing professionals due to the limitations imposed by the hospital setting and treatment. Nursing care can be facilitated through joint actions with the multidisciplinary health team and the family.

Keywords

• enfermagem pediátrica
• cuidados de enfermagem
• neoplasias
• alimentação