Nursing and Psychology inter-consultations in childcare: a child development surveillance strengthening experience

Abstract

The psychosocial aspects of child development should be addressed in childcare appointments, and an interdisciplinary approach is essential to achieve an adequate process of monitoring child development. This article describes a childcare inter-consultation experience in a Family Health Unit involving Nursing and Psychology, focusing on the development surveillance instrument of the Child Health Handbook. Participant observation of childcare inter-consultations was performed, focusing on child development monitoring and conducting Continuing Health Education with the Unit’s professionals. We found that childcare appointments prioritized growth aspects. Thus, an expanded approach to child development was appropriate. The Continuing Health Education involved Psychology and Nursing themes, focusing on the child’s comprehensive health, enabling the construction of interprofessional work. The experience contributed to health education and strengthened childcare, understanding childhood as a process influenced by multifactorial aspects.