Análise da percepção e prática dos enfermeiros na identificação de sinais de risco/atraso em crianças na atenção básica do município de Oiapoque: uma abordagem qualitativa

Abstract

Childcare (puericulture) is a fundamental strategy within Primary Health Care for promoting child growth and development, enabling the early identification of risk signs or developmental delays. In this context, nurses play a central role in conducting childcare consultations, being responsible for the comprehensive assessment of the child, providing guidance to families, and making timely referrals when necessary. This study aimed to analyze nurses’ perceptions and practices in identifying signs of risk or developmental delay during childcare consultations in Primary Care in the municipality of Oiapoque, Amapá. It’s a qualitative, descriptive study conducted with nurses working in the Family Health Strategy, using semi-structured interviews. The analysis of textual data was carried out using IRAMUTEQ software, combined with Bardin’s content analysis. Six categories of analysis emerged, and the results showed that nurses recognize the importance of assessing child development; however, they face challenges related to professional training, structural limitations, high demand for care, and difficulties in the systematic use of the Child Health Handbook. It’s concluded that strengthening continuing education, improving working conditions, and valuing childcare consultations are essential to enhance the early identification of risk signs or developmental delays, contributing to comprehensive care and the reduction of health problems in children.It’s expected that this research will contribute positively to society and the academic community by expanding the understanding of nurses’ roles in identifying signs of risk or developmental delay during childcare consultations. Furthermore, it is hoped that the findings will support future research on the topic, encourage interest in improving child health care, and guide actions and strategies aimed at strengthening nursing care in Primary Health Care. Thus, the study is expected to contribute to the promotion of child health, the prevention of health problems, and the improvement of the quality of care provided to children and their families, especially in vulnerable contexts.