Nursing Process in Postoperative Preschoolers with Ventricular Septal Defect: A Humanized Approach

Abstract

The ventricular septal defect (VSD) was identified as the most prevalent congenital heart disease, with a global incidence of 6-8 per 1,000 live births, according to WHO data and regional studies. In Latin America, this condition represented one of the leading causes of neonatal mortality. In Peru, the National Institute of Child Health San Borja estimated that 30% of congenital defects were heart diseases, many of which were associated with genetic alterations such as trisomy 21, 13, or 18.
Postoperative management of VSD in preschoolers in cardiovascular intensive care units was considered crucial to prevent complications such as heart failure and ventilatory dysfunction. The nursing process, consisting of the stages of assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation, was applied as a systematic tool to provide comprehensive care. During the assessment phase, the 11 functional health patterns of Marjory Gordon were used to identify actual and potential problems, while the priority diagnoses included decreased cardiac output, ineffective tissue perfusion, and dysfunctional ventilatory response.
Implemented interventions included continuous hemodynamic monitoring, thoracic drain management, infection prevention, and pain control. These actions, along with a humanized approach and emotional support for families, improved clinical outcomes and strengthened the bond between the healthcare team and caregivers. The nursing process was key to ensuring proper recovery and providing quality care to pediatric patients affected by VSD