O conhecimento e a aceitabilidade de usuários e servidores do Hospital Universitário de Santa Maria em relação à inserção da atividade assistida por animais mediada por cães

Abstract

Animal-Assisted Activities are interventions in which the patients have animals as mediators. This research investigated and analyzed the acknowledgement and acceptability of users and employees from Santa Maria’s University Hospital regarding Animal-Assisted Activity using dogs. Based on the sample selection criteria, 74 patients that were hospitalized for 30 days or more were included in this study. For patients without fully developed language skills or lacking proper health conditions, the questionnaire was answered by their caregivers. Also included in the survey were 132 hospital employees, who were hired by the Federal University of Santa Maria. For the patients, the questionnaire was applied bedside by the researcher personally and other two previously trained speech therapy students. The evaluation of the employees was carried out through an online version of the questionnaire, which was sent by e-mail through the University’s Data Processing Center. Both questionnaires contained multiple choice and essay questions concerning the perception and acceptance of the interviewees regarding the interventions performed with animals in the hospitals. After data collection, they were analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively. The results showed that most of the interviewees are acquainted with pets, the dog being the most common kind. They have also stated that the presence of the animal into the hospital environment can provide several benefits that help not only the patient's recovery but also the general state of family members and health professionals. In addition, most of the interviewees consider the Animal-Assisted Activity using dogs occurring inside the hospitals to be valid. However, there are still people who are afraid that the animal might be dirty and cause more infections to the patients. Thus, even if most patients and staff are in favor of introducing the interventions with dogs in the hospital, the need for further information on the subject is still apparent. These explanations would contribute to the acceptance and use of this alternative method by the general population. With the necessary information, there would be greater conviction of the fundamental care procedures and benefits so that this interaction with the animals brings more quality of life for all those involved in the process.