ABSTRACT
Objective
To understand, through dramatic therapeutic play, the experiences of siblings of children with chronic diseases.
Method
Phenomenological study, in the light of Heideggerian philosophical framework, conducted with 12 siblings of children with chronic diseases, aged between three and 11 years, accompanied in a public teaching hospital in the countryside of the state of São Paulo. The phenomenological interviews were audio-recorded and mediated by sessions of dramatic therapeutic play; later, interpreted from the Heideggerianphilosophical framework and thematic literature.
Results
The siblings demonstrated that they are affectively touched in the mode of sadness, longing and affection towards the sick child and, by the daily occupations imposed by the disease.
Conclusion
The dramatic therapeutic play enabled the siblings of children with chronic diseases to expose their experiences permeated by the limitations of the child’s chronic disease. Instituting actions for the inclusion of the sibling during the nursing care of the child with chronic disease is urgent to improve its quality.
Keywords:
Siblings; Chronic disease; Qualitative research; Play and playthings; Pediatric nursing.
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Liz [child with chronic disease, 11 years old] I love you, you are my teacher. (Cheerful, 8 years old)
R (researcher):Do you want to tell me about your drawing?Secret:Yes. [Speaks in a choked voice and keeps head down]It’s my house. [Points to the drawing of the house]. My mother and I. [Pointing to the drawings on the sides]R:And what did you write?Secret:When are you coming back? I don't know. (Secret, 9 years old)