Challenges in the Diagnosis of Congenital Pediatric Infections: An Experience Report

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Stigmas and taboos surrounding sexually transmitted infections (STIs) hinder diagnosis and treatment, especially in cases of congenital transmission. During the pediatrics internship, challenges were encountered regarding misinformation and rejection of care, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis, a humanized approach, and combating prejudice through dialogue and public policies. REPORT: The student was responsible for the clinical evolution of some newborns at a maternity hospital during the pediatrics internship, while facing difficulties in dealing with the family’s refusal to accept the diagnosis, particularly when it came to STIs. This sometimes resulted in hospital evasion and interruption of the recommended treatment. DISCUSSION: The experience emphasized the importance of clinical practice in medical training, allowing the development of diagnostic, therapeutic, and socioemotional competencies. During the experience, the relevance of prenatal care in preventing severe outcomes was highlighted, particularly in terms of early diagnosis and the implementation of preventive interventions. The emotional impact on families, often intensified by the revelation of the diagnosis, reinforces the need for an empathetic and multidisciplinary approach. These actions aim to minimize complications, strengthen treatment adherence, and promote comprehensive care, ensuring not only clinical effectiveness but also the humanized quality of care. CONCLUSION: The experience provided both technical and biopsychosocial learning and highlighted the importance of integrating the emotional aspects of families in the management of congenital pediatric infections. In this context, it is essential to enhance the effectiveness of assertive and therapeutic communication by training the team to deal more effectively with cultural and emotional barriers. Additionally, it is necessary to strengthen psychosocial support, promoting more empathetic and humanized care to ensure treatment adherence and prevent hospital evasion.