Brinquedo terapêutico instrucional: o brincar sob a perspectiva da enfermagem de um ambulatório pediátrico

Abstract

Introduction: Instructional Therapeutic Toys are considered a playful form of play, widely used in the hospital context, as they allow for the relief of anxiety generated by atypical experiences resulting from hospitalization, in which they help adults to explain, in a simple and clear way, what will happen to them, in the face of invasive or non-invasive procedures. Considering the gap in scientific production regarding the use of ITP in the outpatient context, this study is justified and is covered by the need to obtain information on the use of instructional therapeutic toys as a care instrument. Objectives: The aim is to describe the use of Instructional Therapeutic Toys in health care for children treated at the Pediatric Outpatient Clinic of a university hospital. Methodology: descriptive exploratory research, through semi-structured interviews with the nursing team working at the pediatric outpatient clinic of the Onofre Lopes University Hospital, during the period of November/2024. The Atlas.Ti 25 software was used to assist in categorizing the statements and analysis was performed from Bardin's perspective. Results and discussion: Ten professionals participated, and the findings could be divided into two main categories: Positive impacts, addressing innovation and benefits for children, parents, and professionals; and challenges and limitations, subcategorized into age group, team resistance, and time and resources. Conclusion: The use of Instructional Therapeutic Play demonstrated significant benefits in relieving children's anxiety and improving the work process of the nursing team. However, challenges were found that must be overcome to optimize the use of this practice and improve pediatric care.