Family centered care in emergency departments: perception of brazilian nurses and doctors

Abstract

Objective: To know the perception of doctors and nurses working in Emergency Care Units (ECU, in Brazil known as "UPA") on Family Centered Care (FCC). Methods: Descriptive study with qualitative approach conducted in two emergency units in Southern Brazil. Participated 32 health professionals, whose speeches were recorded, transcribed and subjected to content analysis. Results: The majority of respondents was unaware of the FCC, however, perceived it as a practice which values the family presence and allows its insertion in care. Many believed to be difficult to implement the FCC in Brazilian UPA, due to professional unpreparedness on the subject, high numbers and turnover of patients, the small physical space and socio-cultural profile of the population served. Conclusion: There is an urge for discussion of this care reference with managers and professionals, so that gradually, and to the extent of its possibilities, care to families in emergency units is expanded.