Parents perception regarding children who underwent elective surgery: from discovery to surgical treatment

Abstract

This study aims to describe the perception of parents about the trajectory of the pediatric surgical patient from the diagnosis and indication of surgery until its fulfillment and to recognize factors that led to the delay in their care. This is a qualitative, descriptive study, that first reviewed medical records identifying children late referred for evaluation by the surgeon and randomized those responsible for the children for being interviewed. Content analysis was carried out, thematic modality. We identified 77/289 (26.6%) patients referred late for surgical evaluation. Three categories emerged: difficulties encountered; care in primary care and from discovering the problem to performing surgery. Regarding the wait for the expert assessment, there is an excess of demand against a lower availability of appointments. A positive aspect was the quality of care received in primary care; the empathy of the teams was praised. Regarding the perception of time, family members considered the wait for care as normal and within expectations. Even when long, if it is not an emergency, it is considered acceptable. Despite initial difficulties, all patients had the surgeries performed and parents considered it a good and quality care service.