Cuidado de enfermagem à criança com transtorno do espectro autista hospitalizada

Abstract

Introduction: Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder, divided into three levels of support and characterized by cognitive, communicative and social impairment. Recent research carried out by the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 1 in 36 children are autistic, with a higher prevalence in males. Child hospitalization is a critical process that affects the child/family binomial, impacting physical, emotional and social aspects, including those with disabilities. In this context, with autistic children, the complexity of the disorder requires the nursing team to adapt the care plan. Objective: Describe the configurations of nursing care for hospitalized children with autism spectrum disorder. Method: Integrative literature review covering articles published between the years 2014 and 2024. The selection of articles was carried out from the databases PubMed, ScienceDirect, Periódicos CAPES, LILACS and BDENF via the Virtual Health Library. For the research, the descriptors registered in the controlled vocabulary Medical Subject Headings and in the Health Sciences Descriptors. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 317 studies were found and, after reading the titles, abstracts and full articles in order to verify the eligibility of publications to Based on the defined research question, 11 studies were selected. The studies were classified according to methodological quality using the Critical Appraisal Skills Program tool, whose specific scale was the one used for qualitative studies. Results: Among the selected studies, three of them were published in 2021, three in 2019 and five in the following years: 2020, 2018, 2016, 2015 and 2014. The research approach was predominantly qualitative, with a greater concentration of publications in the United States. A significant variety in care practices was observed, highlighting the importance of individualizing care to the specific needs of each child. Visual and sensory communication strategies have been shown to be effective in reducing stress and promoting a welcoming environment. The specialized training of health professionals and the integration of multidisciplinary approaches were identified as fundamental to improving the quality of care. Conclusions: Analysis of the reviewed studies highlights the importance of a personalized, patient-centered approach, as well as the need for ongoing training and support for nursing professionals. Implementing the suggested interventions can not only improve the quality of care provided, but also promote a more positive hospital experience for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and their families.