ABSTRACT
Objective:
to know the doubts of the relatives of children with special health care needs regarding home care related to technological devices; and to analyze the use of the conversation circle as a strategy of health education in the preparation for the hospital discharge of the relatives of children with technological devices.
Method:
descriptive and exploratory research, with a qualitative approach, performed in the pediatric hospitalization sector of a federal hospital in Rio de Janeiro between May and June 2014. Six family members participated in semi-structured interviews and conversation circles. The data were submitted to thematic analysis.
Results:
the relatives highlighted doubts in the learning and adaptation to the technology during the transition from the hospital to the home environment, and in possible emergency situations after the hospital discharge. These doubts were mainly about procedural care with tracheostomy and gastrostomy. However, the strategy of the conversation circle with the use of a doll with technological devices coupled was well-accepted by the relatives, as it favored the dialogue and the exchange of knowledge and experiences among the participants, as well as promoting safety in care.
Conclusion:
the conversation circle is a strategy of health education that can be used by Nursing in the preparation of the hospital discharge of children with special health care needs, who are dependent on technology. However, this preparation must happen procedurally during the hospitalization.
DESCRIPTORS:
Children with disabilities; Health education; Family; Pediatric nursing; Chronic disease