THE ROLE OF NURSES IN THE CHILD GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.13176626040611

• Palavras-chave: Nursing; Child Health; Family Health.

• Keywords: Nursing; Child Health; Family Health.

• Abstract:

  
  INTRODUCTION: Administrative Order No. 1,130, dated August 5, 2015, establishes the National Policy for Comprehensive Child Health Care (PNAISC) within the Unified Health System (SUS). The objective is to ensure the comprehensive promotion, protection, and restoration of children’s health, aiming to reduce child morbidity and mortality and promote healthy development. OBJECTIVES: To understand and evaluate the role of nursing professionals in the child growth and development program. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is an exploratory study employing both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The target population consisted of nurses working in Family Health Units (USFs) within the Child Growth and Development Program. Data were collected using a questionnaire containing 10 questions, both open-ended and closed-ended. A total of 8 nurses were interviewed, and all interviews were recorded. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Nurses play a fundamental role in the Child Growth and Development Program at the USF, as it is during consultations that changes in growth and development parameters can be detected and appropriate measures outlined for the continued monitoring of the child. However, on the other hand, it was noted that the main challenge faced by nursing professionals while providing care at the Basic Health Unit (UBS) to children enrolled in the program was the families’ lack of adherence to the program’s appointments, as they often miss scheduled visits. CONCLUSION: Therefore, through the analysis of the data collected via the study, it was found that the nursing professionals working at the USF provide comprehensive and highly effective care to the target population, promoting quality care that will have a positive impact on an individual’s adult life. Despite the difficulties faced, the professionals nevertheless implement strategies aimed at engaging the target population, ensuring the child’s well-being, growth, and healthy development.