[Technology-dependent children: the maternal care experience]

The objective of this study is to understand the maternal experience of caring for a technology-dependent child. We used the ethnographic case study approach, as well as the genogram, ecomap, open interview and observation methods as data collection instruments. The data were organized into three meaning units: the search for causes and culprits; hospital discharge and the demand for care; and the support networks. The study allowed for an understanding of the mother's experience of searching for explanations, as well as feelings of distrust, insecurity and dissatisfaction towards the health service provided. In addition, the mother's organization regarding the child's care and in terms of readying the home environment to receive the child, the use of support networks, and particularly the need for attachment with family and neighbors and the formal and informal search to assure the subsistence of her ill child as well as her other children were explored.