Abstract
The study aimed to understand families’ expectations regarding the care needs of children eligible for palliative care (PC). This is a qualitative multiple case study research, carried out in two stages: 1) identification of children eligible for palliative care; and 2) study of case units, through semi-structured interviews with 18 family members directly linked to monitoring the children. Bardin's thematic analysis was used, from which three categories emerged: 1) waiting for a miracle; 2) between acceptance and miracle; and 3) accepting and seeking strategies for care. Experiences of denial and acceptance of the disease were observed, with impacts on expectations regarding outcomes. Religion emerged as an essential element for coping and searching for meaning in the lived experience. Acceptance of the disease in some cases encouraged the search for care strategies, without excluding hope. There were non-explicit expressions of grief and no signs of an approach by the team. It is concluded that there is a need for welcoming, qualified listening, guidance and support from health teams regarding the hopes and needs of family members of children eligible for PC, as family expectations have a direct impact on the possibilities of less traumatic coping.
Keywords:
Palliative care; Child Care; Family Caregivers