Percepções de familiares/cuidadores sobre internação domiciliar de pessoas com dependência de cuidado

Objective: To analyze family members’/caregivers’ perceptions about domiciliary hospitalization of people with chronic or terminal illnesses receiving care from health professionals. Methods: A qualitative study was conducted between March and April 2014 using semi-structured interviews held at the households of patients in domiciliary hospitalization with eight family members/caregivers in a municipality in Bahia, Brazil. The data were analyzed using the content analysis method, which allowed the identification of the study category – family member’/caregivers’ perceptions about domiciliary hospitalization of people dependent on care. Results: The interviewees reported being satisfied with domiciliary hospitalization due to the differentiated care that is provided, the reduction in hospital trips, the comfort, and the interaction between the health team, family members and the person in need of care. In addition, care is provided based on respect for the individuality and singularity of each family. The interviewees also said that the number of professionals was not enough and there was a need to expand the team. Thus, the team should be made aware of the importance of discussing the rights of family members/caregivers as citizens. Conclusion: According to the interviewees’ perceptions, domiciliary hospitalization is a modality of care that is complementary to essential hospitalization as the home care team provides humanized care and is close to the family. However, the interviews showed that the service offered to these patients seems to be a favor and not a right of the patient to get this public health service.