Mothers' perceptions on health care for children between 0 and 6 years old

Abstract

This qualitative research aimed at the following objectives: a) assess the mothers profile, b) ascertain the mothers perceptions about healthcare provided at home in order to keep in good health children between 0-6 years old, c) identify the mothers learning resources. Mothers with more than one child from two neighborhoods in the municipality of Florianopolis were interviewed. The answers to the qualitative questions were collected and the analysis of their content revealed categories and subcategories. The results show that the child is cared basically by the family which is highly influenced by biomedicine. The doctor and the community healthcare worker are the most recalled healthcare providers. The study concludes that in order to promote health and foster the families autonomy in this area, it is necessary to understand and recognize their ability to cope with a health problem or to improve his/her health.