Nursing technicians’ knowledge of the Kangaroo-Mother Care method in the neonatal unit.

Objective: To identify the nursing technicians’ knowledge about the Kangaroo-Mother Care Method (KMC) implementation and analize its importance for assistance in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Methods: Descriptive research with qualitative approach held with 20 nursing technicians in a neonatal unit. Data was collected in the period from March to April 2012 by carrying out semi-structured interviews and analized through the central-idea method. Results: It was evidenced that the nursing technicians have knowledge about the kangaroo method; however they report difficulties in identifying its steps in their everyday neonatal practice; they believe it is important in health care as it helps in the newborn’s recovery growth and development; in addition to promoting the parents’ participation providing humanized care. Conclusion: The investigated nursing technicians know the KMC and its importance in neonatal assistance although they point out difficulties regarding the identification of its steps and applicability in their daily practice.