Conhecimentos, práticas e cuidados em saúde bucal dos pais e cuidadores com crianças hospitalizadas no Instituto de Saúde da Criança do Amazonas (ICAM)

Abstract

The objective of this study was to assess the knowledge and practices of parents and caregivers of hospitalized children regarding children's oral health routines during hospitalization. Material and method: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted with 98 caregivers/companions of hospitalized children from March to June 2025 at the Amazonas Children's Health Institute, a public pediatric hospital located in Manaus, Amazonas. Data collection was performed through interviews using a questionnaire adapted to the reality of hospitalization, divided into a profile design and an oral health questionnaire with domains of “practice,” “attitude,” and “knowledge.” The collected data were submitted to descriptive and statistical analysis using Excel 2016. Result: Most respondents were female (87.7%) and “mothers” (72.5%). Regarding educational level, most reported having completed high school (60.2%). The average age was 36.6 years. In the interview, 83.7% of the responses were adequate in “practice,” 41.8% in “attitude,” and 56.1% in “knowledge.” Regarding the presence of oral hygiene kits, 92.8% of participants reported having a toothbrush for the patient, 45.9% had dental floss, and 93.8% had toothpaste for oral hygiene during hospitalization. Conclusion: Those responsible stated that they performed oral hygiene for hospitalized children, but revealed misinformation about the subject and the correct use of oral hygiene items, thus suggesting that the presence of a dental surgeon can contribute to maintaining their oral health.