Rev. Soc. Bras. Enferm. Ped.2006;6(1):9-15.

ISSUE Cover

CHILDREN’S AUTONOMY DURING HOSPITALIZATION: IS THIS RIGHT RESPECTED?

DOI: 10.31508/1676-3793200600002

Abstract

Background:

Children are submitted to various procedures during hospitalization and in some situations, they are not allowed to take part on them.

Aim:

to understand children’s experience of autonomy during therapeutic procedures.

Method:

It was conducted in a public teaching hospital in São Paulo. Data were carried out by observation and semi-structured interviews with nine children.

Results:

the qualitative content analysis allowed the comprehension of children’s experience of autonomy, revealing that the right of autonomy is poorly contemplated, so they fell powerless and vulnerable.

Conclusion:

It is important to reinforce the ethical commitment of all the professionals involved in care of hospitalized children, so the hospitalization can turn to a less traumatic experience and allow their whole development.