Percepção dos enfermeiros em relação às condições e integridade da pele de recém-nascidos e lactentes internados em uma unidade neonatal

Abstract

Introduction: The skin is the largest vital organ and is composed of three layers: the epidermis, the dermis and the subcutaneous tissue. In premature newborns, the epidermis is under development and less prepared to face extrauterine conditions. Nursing care aimed at the newborn's skin has become a concern to keep it as intact as possible. Objective: To investigate the knowledge and practice of nurses regarding the assessment of conditions and risks to the integrity of the skin of newborns and infants in the neonatal unit. Methodology: Descriptive study with a qualitative approach. The study site was a Neonatal ICU of a public maternity hospital in the city of Rio de Janeiro. The participants were nurses who work in this ICU unit and data collection was carried out using a semi-structured questionnaire, and the data collection period was from September to December 20223. Results: 15 nurses, aged between 28 and 57 years old and with time working in the neonatal unit ranging from less than 1 year to more than 15 years. Participants stated that the use of skin assessment scales is important to guide care for newborns and infants. Conclusion: The prevention and treatment of skin lesions is a challenge for the nursing team and requires trained and qualified professionals. The use of a skin assessment scaleis essential for standardizing the care provided to newborns.