REMOTE CARE PROFILE TO CHILDREN WITH NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS IN THE APAE NETWORK DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC - A SURVEY-TYPE STUDY

Abstract

Because of isolation and social distancing measures to control the spread of Covid-19, several healthcare professionals had to adapt to the new scenario. Thus, to maintain care, even if remotely, the use of telemonitoring by physical therapists was approved. Because of this, this study aims to report the characteristics of telemonitoring adopted by physical therapists for children with neurological disorders linked to the Associação de Pais e Amigos dos Excepcionais - APAE (Parents and Friends of People with Special Needs Association) Network. The study is characterized as a cross-sectional survey-type study, carried out from an electronic questionnaire to Brazilian neuropediatric physiotherapists who are members of the APAE. The survey questionnaire comprised two main parts: (1) demographic and professional data and (2) questions about the characteristics of telemonitoring help. In total, 318 physical therapists answered the questionnaire, mostly women (84.34%) and from the Southeast region of the country (46.67%). The number of weekly visits decreases in the pre-pandemic period (30 or more visits (35.44%)) when compared to the pandemic period (6 to 10 children (21.38%)). The most used resources to assist with care were the use of balls, rollers, and benches (69.11%). Regarding issues related to the major difficulties reported by physical therapists, there was a greater emphasis on the lack of understanding by parents or guardians in specific handling and internet connection problems. This study adds important information about the use of telerehabilitation by physical therapy in the neuropediatric population. Thus, being useful as guidance in the preparation and adaptation of consultations via telemonitoring by professionals and decision-makers in ​​pediatric rehabilitation.