DEATH AND DYING IN PEDIATRIC INTENSIVE CARE: THE HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS

• Main Authors: Maria Virgínia Martins Faria Faddul Alves, Débora Nunes Scudeler, Claudia Helena Bronzatto Luppi, Maria José Trevizani Nitsche, Lis Amanda Ramos Toso
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Universidade Federal do Paraná 2012-09-01
• Series: Cogitare Enfermagem
• Subjects: Death; Intensive care; Nursing care
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.5380/ce.v17i3.29296

The objective of this descriptive research was to investigate the perception of health care professionals who work in Pediatric Intensive Care Units in relation to the process of death and dying. The study was undertaken between June and August 2011, with data collected through structured interviews and subjected to statistical analysis. Of the 25 participants, 72% perceived death as a natural process of life, 60% felt compassion – a feeling that did not interfere in caring for the patient, 52% related that they had not received any preparation about the process of death or dying and 76% showed interest in taking a refresher course on the issue. Greater discussion is necessary about academic training, and the offer of educational activities and space for exchanging experiences, such that the workers may better understand and deal with feelings and limitations regarding death.