Abstract

This is an integrative review aimed to analyze scientific evidence about the profile of newborns with gastroschisis and the implications to nursing care. Data was collected in virtual health databases such as BVS, MEDLINE/PUBMED and CINAHL between 2004 and 2016. We analyzed 19 publications that fit the established criteria. The characteristics of newborns with gastroschisis were grouped into four categories: (i) risk factors, prenatal diagnosis, maternal variables and neonatal profile for gastroschisis; (ii) clinical and surgical treatment and newborn care for gastroschisis; (iii) intestinal complications and postoperative of the newborn with gastroschisis; (iv) prognosis of the newborn with gastroschisis and the implications to the nursing care. The presence of this malformation compromises neonatal prognosis, and it is associated with obstetric and neonatal complications, like prematurity and low weight at birth, intestinal complications, sepsis and prolonged hospitalization. Data in the literature has shown that nursing care in gastroschisis is poorly documented. This highlights the necessity of developing more researches to sustain the systematization of nursing care to meet these newborn needs.

Key words: Gastroschisis, Abdominal wall, Newborn