Bladder and bowel symptoms from the perspective of children, their caregivers and specialists

A qualitative study in the light of the theory of unpleasant symptoms

Authors

  • Cristiane Salviano Hospital da Criança de Brasília José Alencar - HCB. Brasília, DF - Brasil.
  • Gisele Martins Universidade de Brasília - UNB, Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde - FS, Departamento de Enfermagem - DE. Brasília, DF - Brasil. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4656-6195

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.35699/2316-9389.2024.40051

Keywords:

Child, Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms, Constipation, Caregivers, Specialization, Nursing Theory

Abstract

Objective: to understand the experience of urinary and intestinal symptoms in childhood, considering the Theory of Unpleasant Symptoms, through the eyes of children, their caregivers and specialists. Method: a descriptive, qualitative study was carried out, recruiting children and caregivers from a specialized nursing outpatient clinic in a public teaching hospital in the Federal District. Specialists, mostly from the same institution, were recruited, as well as professionals from other health establishments using the snowball technique. Data was collected from February 2019 to February 2020 through semi-structured interviews. The thematic analysis followed an inductive approach, based on the theoretical framework. Results: a total of 14 specialists, 11 caregivers and 7 children took part. Three thematic categories were identified: verbalization of symptom characteristics by the child; factors that influence the experience of symptoms; repercussions as contributors to the child's symptoms. The interviewees highlighted physiological, psychological and situational factors. As for the repercussions, bullying, school performance and the difficulty of sleeping outside were important points. Simple and accessible language is recommended, using 'pee' and 'poop', and time-related terms, making it easier to collect information from children and include their perspective on urological care. Conclusion: the study provided a detailed understanding of the experience of urinary and intestinal symptoms in children, according to the Unpleasant Symptoms Theory. The findings help to improve and qualify care in pediatric urology, adopting a child-centered approach, applicable to both specialized and primary health care.

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Published

2024-12-16

Issue

Section

Research

How to Cite

1.
Bladder and bowel symptoms from the perspective of children, their caregivers and specialists: A qualitative study in the light of the theory of unpleasant symptoms. REME Rev Min Enferm. [Internet]. 2024 Dec. 16 [cited 2025 Dec. 12];28(1). Available from: https://periodicos.ufmg.br/index.php/reme/article/view/40051

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