title: The meaning of neutropenia and homecare needs according to caregivers of children with cancer.
abstract: This study aimed to understand the meanings caregivers attributed to the process of caring for a neutropenic child at home and know their needs for orientation related to care for these children. This descriptive study was carried out at the Pediatric Oncology Institute through semi-structured interviews, involving eleven caregivers. Data were organized according to the content analysis technique and interpreted according to Social Representations theory. Results indicate changes in the physical environment, people and human relationships, evidencing crises and transition towards stability. The following care procedures raised doubts: hyperthermia, body, food and environmental hygiene, risks of interpersonal contact and special care. The conclusion is that caregivers need technical and emotional preparedness to cope with the reported difficulties, including aggravating situations.
authors.affiliation: Hospital e Maternidade Santa Marina, Sao Paulo, Brazil. deboradgelesson@yahoo.com.br
authors.forename: Débora Duarte
authors.initials: DD
authors.lastname: Gelesson
authors.forename: Liliane Yumi
authors.initials: LY
authors.lastname: Hiraishi
authors.forename: Letícia Alves
authors.initials: LA
authors.lastname: Ribeiro
authors.forename: Sonia Regina
authors.initials: SR
authors.lastname: Pereira
authors.forename: Maria Gaby Rivero
authors.initials: MG
authors.lastname: de Gutiérrez
authors.forename: Edvane Birelo Lopes
authors.initials: EB
authors.lastname: De Domenico
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D017028:Caregivers; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D006699:Home Care Services; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D020380:Needs Assessment; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000150:complications*; D009503:Neutropenia / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy*; D055815:Young Adult