Abstract Objective To identify factors associated with stress among family caregivers of children and adolescents with Down syndrome. Method This was a cross-sectional, analytical, observational study with a quantitative approach. Data were collected in participants’ homes using a sociodemographic and clinical characterization instrument, the Perceived Stress Scale, and salivary cortisol collection upon awakening. Bivariate and multivariate statistical analyses were performed to identify associations. Results A total of 30 family members participated, including 24 mothers, five fathers, and one sister. Of […]

Abstract Objective To understand caregivers’ perceptions and experiences regarding congenital heart disease and the well-being strategies adopted during the children’s illness process. Methods A qualitative, descriptive, and exploratory study was conducted with 24 caregivers of children with congenital heart disease at a public hospital in Santa Catarina, Brazil. Data were collected through a semi-structured questionnaire, including sociodemographic and clinical information, and analyzed using Minayo’s Thematic Analysis. Results Four topics emerged: (1) Initial impact with the diagnosis: difficulties and overcoming them; […]