Abstract
Objective
To understand the experience of mothers of tracheostomized children between 0 and 24 months old, who resumed breastfeeding with the use of the Passy-Muir® deglutition valve.
Method
A descriptive study with a qualitative approach and semistructured interviews conducted from June to August 2017 in which the participants were 11 mothers of tracheostomized children, by follow-up in a rehabilitation and logopedia center, which adapted the Passy-Muir® deglutition valve. The analysis was based on the assumptions of thematic content analysis.
Results
the mothers' experience, after the child's tracheostomy, the use of the Passy-Muir® swallowing valve minimized the difficulties in breastfeeding. Once the valve adaptation process was overcome, its benefits were realized. The mothers' feelings in the process of adapting the valve are described, their expectations with the use of the valve and pleasure and fullness for the woman in the return of breastfeeding.
Conclusions and implications for practice
Safety during breastfeeding, reduction in the production of secretions, and reductions in the number of airway aspirations were observed, noticing improvements in the respiratory pattern, in the vocalizations (mumbling and crying), and in the child's sleep quality. Further research is needed to address breastfeeding of tracheostomized children to deepen knowledge in this area.
Keywords:
Breastfeeding; Tracheostomy; Infant; Child Care; Public Health