Minimal handling protocol: transdisciplinarity in premature newborn neuroprotection in the Brazilian amazon

Prematurity leads to admission to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), an essential environment for higher survival rates, but which can cause neurodevelopment problems. Thus, minimal handling protocols are needed for the neuroprotection. This study evaluates the transdisciplinary view of neuroprotection in premature newborn (PTN) in the NICU of a reference hospital in the Brazilian Amazon. A field study with a prospective, qualitative and quantitative approach was conducted in a sample of forty-three professionals from the NICU of the hospital. Data collection was performed through recorded interviews with a semi-structured questionnaire. The qualitative data was analyzed through Bardin's Theory and the quantitative data analyzed by software. Results showed prevalence of professionals with five to ten years of experience who had never had training on neuroprotection. Most defined neuroprotection as protection of neurological structures, the ideal interval for the handling of the PTN every 3 hours, and agreed that bathing, diaper changing, light and others influence the neuroprotection. Therefore, the team's reduced knowledge about neuroprotection can be detrimental to preterm care, having a direct impact on the child's healthy neurodevelopment. Minimal handling measures are crucial to reduce harm and it is urgent to carry out studies in the area.