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with a continuous publication system on Nursing and Health Sciences topics;
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Experience of mothers caring for children with cow's milk protein allergy
Authors
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Sergio Andres Guentelican Oyarzo
Universidad de las Américas
https://orcid.org/0009-0007-7267-2454
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Jeniffer Andrea Moraga Gutierrez
Universidad de las Américas
https://orcid.org/0009-0007-3342-8205
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Marina Paz Rojas Figueroa
Universidad de las Américas
https://orcid.org/0009-0006-0002-2949
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Carola Montecinos Bacigalupo
Universidad de las Américas
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5665-6303
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Abstract
Introduction: Cow's milk protein allergy is an immune-mediated condition that occurs most frequently during the first year of life, placing strain on mothers' caregiving processes. The estimated global prevalence is between 2% and 7.5%, while studies in Chile are still in their infancy. Clinical manifestations are predominantly gastrointestinal, although cutaneous and systemic symptoms are also observed. Objective: To reveal the experience of mothers caring for children diagnosed with cow's milk protein allergy. Methodology: Qualitative study with a phenomenological approach and purposive sampling. In-depth online interviews were conducted with nine mothers. The analysis followed Helen Streubert's guidelines. Results: Three units of meaning emerged: diagnostic search, family adaptation, and perception of improvements to the health system. The subunits revealed experiences of multiple medical consultations, uncertainty about symptoms, economic impact, dietary reorganisation, and lack of psychological support. There was evidence of clinical ignorance about cow's milk protein allergy in primary care and barriers to access to medical specialists. Conclusions: The experience of caring for a child with cow's milk protein allergy involves profound changes in family dynamics. The lack of adequate professional guidance forces caregivers to make clinical decisions without support. It is suggested that the role of nursing professionals in screening and follow-up be strengthened, in addition to incorporating educational and community strategies from primary care.
Keywords:
Milk Hypersensitivity , Maternal Behavior , Child , Mothers , Child NutritionReferences
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