companions’ perceptions regarding the intubated child in pediatric icu

Intubation brings meanings for companions in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, as it causes change of the child’s body image, interferes in communication, and suggests severity in the clinical picture. This study aimed to analyze the companion’s perception regarding the intubated child, and was undertaken between July and October 2011, in a hospital in Campo Largo, in the Brazilian state of Paraná. A study with a qualitative approach was undertaken, using semi-structured interviews, held with eight participants. The categories, based on the content analysis, were: ‘Impact caused by the severity of the illness and the intubation’; ‘Intubation as a channel for life’ and ‘The companion’s attitudes and behaviors’. It is concluded that the intubation is initially perceived as a period of commotion and shock caused by the unit’s environment and resources. Some companions transpose to themselves the child’s possible feelings. Also, it is understood as a means of survival, and the companions develop coping strategies, showing themselves to be resilient, and viewing it as learning for life.