Family perspective on caring for children with chronic conditions in the pre- and trans-pandemic contexts of COVID-19.

OBJECTIVE

To understand families' perspectives on caring for children with chronic conditions in the pre- and trans-pandemic contexts of COVID-19 in light of the Family Management Style Framework.

METHODS

Longitudinal qualitative study conducted with 24 family caregivers of children aged 2 to 4 years. Data were collected through a socioeconomic questionnaire and semi-structured interviews in two stages: pre-pandemic (October 2019 to May 2020) and trans-pandemic (June 2020 to January 2021). Data were subjected to thematic analysis guided by the theoretical framework.

RESULTS

The family perspective guided care management over time and was modified by the pandemic. In the pre-pandemic context, it was centered on children's strengths, directing actions toward developmental promotion and health maintenance. In the trans-pandemic context, the perspective focused on children's frailties and vulnerabilities associated with the perceived threat of COVID-19, resulting in intensified surveillance and hygiene care.

CONCLUSION

The family perspective guides care management and is sensitive to contextual changes, providing support for the qualification of professional practice in health crisis contexts.