CARING FOR INSTITUTIONALIZED ADOLESCENTS: THE CAREGIVER’S PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Objective: To describe the care for institutionalized adolescents from the perspective of caregiving women in a residential care center in Chiclayo, Peru. Material and Method: Descriptive qualitative research, with non-probabilistic sampling, using convenience and saturation. Participants consisted of 10 caregiving women of a residential care center, who signed prior informed consent and responded a semi-structured interview validated by three experts. Rigor was based on the criteria of credibility, auditability and transferability. Results: 3 categories were identified: a) Compliance with nutritional requirements and monitoring of personal hygiene, b) Affection and assertive communication to re-educate in values and c) Support in daily life tasks. Conclusion: Caregivers act as biological mothers, coordinating with other professionals working at the care center. They try to educate or re-educate an adolescent separated from his or her biological family after a court ruling decision due to lack of a favorable environment for his or her growth and development. In this way, they carry out different activities to satisfy the primary and affective needs, instill discipline and values, as well as encourage self-improvement through daily tasks. They also promote recreational and sports activities. There are even indications that caregivers strengthen faith through prayer and work in coordination with other professionals, especially with the nurses who are responsible for the general health of adolescents.