Family-Centered Approaches to Pediatric Tuberculosis and Nutritional Challenges in North Aceh: A Qualitative Study

Background: Pediatric tuberculosis (TB) remains a major global health issue, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. In areas such as Aceh, the nutritional needs of pediatric TB patients are frequently neglected, with treatment primarily addressing the causes of infection and insufficient family involvement. This study aimed to analyze the nutritional problems related to pediatric TB in North Aceh Regency, Aceh Province, Indonesia. Methodology: This qualitative study employed phenomenological analysis through in-depth face-to-face interviews with pediatric patients, their guardians, healthcare professionals, and hospital administrative staff at Cut Meutia General Hospital, North Aceh, from July to September 2024. Conducted in Indonesian, the interviews were audio-recorded with consent and analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: This study examined 28 pediatric TB patients, equally divided by sex, with a mean age of 2.6 years. Most were normally nourished, and nearly half had pulmonary TB, primarily contracted from household contact. This study identified five key themes: increasing TB incidence, pediatric TB treatment challenges, nutritional concerns, inadequate sanitation, and strategies to address treatment and nutritional issues in children with TB. Conclusions: The proposed interventions include increasing TB awareness, promoting BCG vaccination, considering socioeconomic factors, enhancing treatment adherence, and integrating nutritional support into management strategies.