Factors associated with stress in family caregivers of children with Down Syndrome

• Grant number: 22/10984-7
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: February 01, 2023
• End date: January 31, 2024
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Nursing - Pediatric Nursing
• Principal Investigator: Aline Cristiane Cavicchioli Okido
• Grantee: Bianca Annie Martins
• Host Institution: Centro de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde (CCBS). Universidade Federal de São Carlos (UFSCAR). São Carlos , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Objective: to analyze the stress among family caregivers of children with Down Syndrome and to identify the associated socio-demographic factors. Method: study with observational, analytical and cross-sectional design, with a quantitative approach to be carried out with family caregivers of children with Down Syndrome recruited from a care institution that provides multidisciplinary care to this clientele. Data collection will be carried out at home through the application of a characterization instrument, subjective Perceived Stress Scale and collection of four saliva samples at different times (upon awakening, 30 minutes after awakening, at noon and at 20:00) in order to measure the total daily production of cortisol. Bivariate and multivariate statistical analyzes will be applied to identify possible associations. To measure the total daily production of salivary cortisol, the Area under the Curve will be used, calculated based on the log-trapezoidal method. All statistical analyzes will be carried out using the SAS System for Windows (Statistical Analysis System) computer program, version 9.2. Expected results: it is expected to corroborate the scientific advance of pediatric nursing by responding to a knowledge gap as well as substantiating the existing literature. In the long term, the results of this project can support nursing interventions aimed at minimizing the burden and stress among family caregivers of children with Down Syndrome and generating rich opportunities for future intervention research.