A continuidade do cuidado ao recém-nascido prematuro de risco na terceira etapa do método canguru

Abstract

This study analyzed scientific evidence regarding the continuity of care for at-risk premature newborns in the third stage of the kangaroo method. This is an integrative literature review, in which a literature search was conducted in the databases MEDLINE, LILACS, Web of Science, Scopus, BDENF, and SciELO, selecting articles published from 2014 to 2024. Initially, 1,049 studies were identified; after the removal of duplicates and the application of inclusion criteria, only 11 articles were deemed eligible for the review. The data revealed a predominance of Brazilian studies (45.5%), and 81.8% of the articles used a qualitative approach. The research participants were predominantly female, with recurrent involvement of nursing professionals in the continuity of care for preterm newborns. The literature reviewed identified that guidance and encouragement of practices such as exclusive breastfeeding (EBF), kangaroo positioning, regular monitoring of growth and child development, as well as emotional and social support for the premature infant and their family, are relevant measures to prevent damage to the overall development of premature children. The articulation between levels of care, the establishment of a bond between the team and the family of the premature baby, and the inexperience of professionals with prematurity are factors that interfere with maintaining continuity of care after hospital discharge. Managing the weaknesses in the healthcare networks and establishing a care pathway are strategies that help promote the follow-up of premature babies in primary care.