The social imaginary in the daily lives of family caregivers during the prevention of childhood tuberculosis in southern Lima, Peru.

Abstract

Objective.: To interpret the social imaginary of family caregivers regarding the daily practices of preventive tuberculosis therapy in children.

Materials and methods.: A qualitative, descriptive-interpretive study, from the perspective of comprehensive and everyday sociology. Fifteen caregivers of children who started preventive tuberculosis therapy in four health facilities in South Lima were interviewed between December 2020 and May 2021. The in-depth interview was used as a technique, and a virtual interview guide as the instrument. The analysis was conducted using the thematic analysis technique.

Results.: Three themes emerged: identifying strengths and limits in coping with tuberculosis; the impact of the social imaginary on sensitive care practices during preventive treatment; and interpreting the social construction of TB and its preventive practices.

Conclusions.: Strengths and limits were evidenced in the daily lives of caregivers while coping with and preventing tuberculosis. Likewise, in their sociability, they provided sensitive care based on their experiences, beliefs, feelings, and social bonds; they showed relative sensitivity and creativity in the face of the imposition of clinical rationalism. Furthermore, it was found that their ordinary knowledge and understanding of the disease were mediated by fears, uncertainties, and beliefs. Finally, their capacity to interpret and give meaning to the lived experience of the other is highlighted.