Perfil de crianças e adolescentes dependentes de tecnologias em saúde numa unidade de terapia intensiva pediátrica

Abstract

Background: Technology-dependent children and adolescents are recurrently admitted to intensive care units. These admissions prompt the need for follow-up care to maintain these children’s and adolescents’ health. Objective: To identify the demographic and clinical profile of technology-dependent children and adolescents at the time of hospital discharge from a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). Methodology: This is a quantitative, documentary, and retrospective study based on medical records of technology-dependent children/adolescents admitted to the PICU of a teaching hospital in southern Brazil. Results : The study observed a predominance of white male children up to one year of age coming from the pediatric emergency room, with a history of conditions originating from the perinatal period, the use of long-term medication, and the prevalence of diseases of the respiratory system and congenital malformations. Conclusion: This group represents a challenge for healthcare services. In addition to the current diagnosis, past complications can affect the prognosis. Implementing care action plans that consider the needs of children/adolescents and their families is recommended to ensure comprehensive care.