Avaliação do conhecimento de pais e responsáveis sobre a síndrome do bebê sacudido

Abstract

Introduction: Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS) is a form of physical abuse that occurs when the child is strongly agitated resulting in the formation of subdural or subarachnoid hematoma, diffuse cerebral edema and retinal hemorrhages, with serious consequences for child development. Objectives: To assess the knowledge of parents and caregivers who attend the Cesupa Medical Specialties Center (CEMEC) about Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS). Methodology: An observational, cross-sectional and analytical study, carried out by applying a questionnaire on the level of knowledge of parents and caregivers about SBS. Results: The study shows that 90% of respondents think it is wrong to shake a child under 6 months of age. Among the consequences related to the act of shaking a baby, 96% indicate that the baby can get sick and 70% that the baby can vomit. It was found that 39.6% think that reflux can be a disease associated with the act of shaking a baby and 33.3% believe that it would be physical and mental problems. The age group from 20 to 29 years was the most prevalent (54%) among respondents, with a predominance of females (88%). About 76% declare themselves brown, 48% have a monthly income of 1 to 2 minimum wages and 48% declare themselves “housewives”, 84% do not use alcohol or other drugs and 68% have high school education. Mothers or fathers of babies represent 90% of respondents. The predominant age group among babies was between 9 and 12 months (72%). Among respondents, 50% agree that caring for a baby can be tiring and stressful. Regarding the reason for the baby's crying, 86% of the participants think that the baby cries because he is hungry, 72% because he is in pain and 70% because he is sick. The main strategy used to calm a baby when crying was play (54%). Conclusion: The low knowledge of the severity of shaking, compared to the high knowledge that shaking is bad for the baby's health, may be related to the name of the syndrome. This fact reaffirms the need for educational interventions in health services in order to contribute to the increase in parental knowledge and the consequent prevention of this injury.