FAMILY ARRANGEMENTS: HOW FAMILIES OF STREET MARKETERS FACE ILLNESS

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the arrangements made by families of street marketers face to the illness of a member. Material and Methods: This was an exploratory qualitative study using systematic observation and semi-structured interview with 17 street marketers. Thematic content analysis was adopted according to three stages: pre-analysis, material exploration, treatment of results obtained and interpretation. The results were organized into one category, which encompasses a subcategory. Results: The marketers consider that family arrangements are independent of the severity of illness and homecare practices, but depend on the existence of concrete and constant relationships in the family network. According to them, the relationship between family members does not change based on the health-disease process. Family arrangements also encompass the nuclear family as the protagonist, the woman as a natural caregiver, as well as the importance of the extended and comprehensive family in the process of caring. They reveal a plural dynamic, with the supporting actions of the extended and comprehensive family determining the effectiveness of care practices. Conclusion: It is up to the nursing professionals to apply the techniques for family system assessment, in order to identify family members responsible for the care, as well as to recognize conflicts and harmony in the relationships that can subsidize their work process. DESCRIPTORS Family Practice. Family Relations. Family Characteristics. Family Health. Occupational Health.