[Home technological support network for technology-dependent children discharged from a state-run hospital]

Due to major advances, life maintenance technology has improved remarkably over the past few years. Research and development in the field of intensive pediatric and neonatal care has prompted the appearance of a new type of patient: the Technologically-Dependent Child (TDC), a heterogeneous and loosely-defined group whose survival is dependent on technological and pharmacological artifacts. A Government pediatric hospital in Rio de Janeiro, the Instituto Fernandes Figueira (IFF/FIOCRUZ) cares for this group. When eligible patients return home, they are enrolled in the Interdisciplinary Home Care Program (PADI) run by this Institution. This paper discusses the life maintenance equipment purchase and maintenance network, analyzing how families absorb technology so as to become homecare givers and take decisions. Finally, it also examines how families, hospitals and funding agencies must cooperate in order to care for the TDC at home and at this Institution. This qualitative research project is based on observations and interviews conducted at hospital facilities and children being treated in their homes through the Interdisciplinary Home Care Program.