Clinical and epidemiological profile of children admitted to a pediatric unit

Abstract

Objective: to analyze clinical and epidemiologically profile of children admitted to pediatrics at a public hospital in Rio de Janeiro State. Method: this quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted by applying a questionnaire to parents and guardians of children admitted to pediatrics. Results: 92 (100%) parents and guardians participated, 57 (62.0%) of whom were out of work; 27 (29.4%) had four dependents; 35 (38.0%) received family income of one minimum wage. The children were mostly infants (47; 51.1%) and diagnosed with a respiratory condition (35; 38.0%). Conclusion: an association was found between social determinants, especially socioeconomic factors, and the development of respiratory disorders, particularly in infants. It is recommended that specific policies, for not only curative care, but also prevention, be intensified by health education to enable families, parents and guardians to recognize the risk factors for such diseases, as well as the signs of severity.