Care management of students with special food needs linked to the National School Food Program

Abstract

To analyze the care management mechanisms aimed at students with Special Food Needs (SFN) linked to the Municipal Education Secretariats of the state of Santa Catarina. It is a study of mixed methods, with a concomitant incorporated strategy, carried out with 134 nutritionists who assist students with SFN. A questionnaire sent by electronic mail was used as a data collection instrument, being analyzed through thematic content analysis and descriptive statistics. The results indicated that the medical certificate or report for offering special food was the main supporting document; the public auction was the means of obtaining special foods; food handlers predominated in receiving guidance regarding SFN; lack of products and suppliers was indicated as difficulties, and guarantee of service highlighted as ease in the management of SFN; as for the management characteristics, the absence of a request for a technical sheet (79.9%), special food supply (62%), information material (92.5%) and availability of utensils (63.4%) stand out. The nutritional assistance in cities has different management mechanisms, which meet the needs of students with SFN, but still have some weaknesses that hinder the implementation of comprehensive care.

Keywords:
health management; nutrition programs and policies; school feeding