UNIQUE EXPERIENCES OF HEALTH PROFESSIONALS IN THE SOCIAL SUPPORT NETWORK FOR CHILDREN WITH CEREBRAL PALSY

Abstract

Objective: To gain knowledge on the experiences of health professionals in the social support network of children with cerebral palsy.Methodology: Descriptive study with a qualitative approach with eight mothers and one grandmother in a school clinic and institution for disabled people, from October 2015 to May 2016, through semi-structured interviews. Interpretation was based on thematic analysis and on the concepts of Emmanuel Lévinas.Results: The stress experienced by health professionals often affects the relationship health team-child and family, generating distrust and lack of commitment between them. Trust is placed in rehabilitation professionals and weakness is perceived in the relationship with professionals of the Family Health Strategy (ESF).Conclusion: The experiences of health professionals in the social support network for children with cerebral palsy show that these professionals must respect the situations in which the Other is involved, in order to adjust treatment goals according to the needs of the Other.

Keywords

• Cerebral palsy
• Health professionals
• Childcare
• Family
• Social support