MATERNAL PERCEPTION REGARDING THE MANAGEMENT OF NEONATAL JAUNDICE

Abstract

The main objective of this study was to describe maternal perceptions regarding the management of neonatal jaundice. This is an exploratory-descriptive field research study with a qualitative approach. It was conducted in the city of Sobral, in the state of Ceará, at a recognized tertiary-level hospital. Data collection took place between December and January of 2025 and 2026. Ten mothers were interviewed, and the study was based on the data analysis proposed by Bardin, using the IRAMUTEQ software, respecting resolution 466/12 of the National Health Council and approved by the ethics committee with opinion number 8.008.884. The mothers involved in the research were between 21 and 38 years old, with the vast majority having completed high school. It was observed that most mothers had no prior knowledge of the pathology, which contributed to feelings of anxiety and fear during the newborn's hospitalization process. Emphasis was placed on the importance of understanding the management of neonatal jaundice beyond just caring for the newborn, also offering support for the mother.