Objective: To describe the effects of low-level laser therapy observed in individuals with diabetes mellitus. Method: A retrospective documentary study conducted at a reference outpatient health care complex in the state of Rio de Janeiro. Data collection took place between May and July 2025 through electronic medical records, from which information regarding laser therapy indications, dosimetry, treatment duration, and clinical progression was extracted. Data were analyzed using simple descriptive statistics. Results: A total of 402 low-level laser therapy sessions were performed in 52 patients, with an annual mean of 133 applications. Of these, 361 (89.8%) corresponded to the control and adjunctive treatment of lower-limb infections, mainly onychomycosis (n=285; 70.9%), tinea pedis (n=61; 15.2%), and tissue repair (n=27; 6.7%), over 24 months of follow-up. Conclusion: The observed effects of low-level laser therapy were favorable across different clinical outcomes, including improvement of fungal infections such as onychomycosis and tinea pedis, ulcer healing, edema reduction, and pain relief.
Objective: To describe the structure of social representations of health for Omolokô practitioners, as constructed by its followers. Method: A descriptive study with a qualitative approach, supported by the Central Nucleus Theory (CNT) of social representations, conducted across 05 Omolokô terreiros located in the State of Rio de Janeiro, with 106 participants. Results: The results show that health, for this group, is represented by four intersecting dimensions: spiritual, attitudinal, affective, and biomedical. Conclusion: Conceptions of health among Omolokô practitioners are revealed as a synonym for well-being and quality of life, emphasizing the ability to face challenges by maintaining the balance between body, mind, and spirit. The social relevance of this study is centered on the fact that, by giving voice to these subjects, an opportunity arises to understand their desires, fears, images, difficulties, attitudes, barriers, and feelings.
Objective: To develop, together with the interdisciplinary team of a health care institution, the essential characteristics of an educational technology (ET) aimed at enhancing transfusion safety. Method: Convergent care research was used to develop the intervention. After approval by a human research ethics committee, focus groups were established in which participants were invited to actively engage, through the Maguerez Arch, in the development of an ET. Results: The Maguerez Arch supported participants in critically reflecting on their concrete reality, enabling the identification of incomplete documentation, inadequate communication, and staff turnover as the main challenges to be addressed. Subsequently, stages of theoretical analysis were conducted, and the proposed applications to practice included the development of infographics and the use of digital technologies to support continuing education initiatives. Conclusion: The use of the Maguerez Arch in the development and proposal of interventions efficiently guided participants from their concrete reality to a process of critical reflection, generating outcomes directly related to professional practice. The contributions obtained promoted a more careful approach, particularly regarding documentation practices, contributing to the strengthening of transfusion safety and patient safety.
Objective: To analyze the network structure corresponding to burnout symptoms in Brazilian nursing workers. Method: A cross-sectional study with non-probability sampling. The sample included 3,594 nurses, nursing technicians and nursing assistants and the data collection was performed remotely. The burnout symptoms were assessed with the Burnout Assessment Tool – General Version. The data were analyzed by means of the network analysis technique, using the Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) partial correlation and regression method. Centrality of the nodes was estimated through strength, closeness and betweenness indicators and network stability was assessed by means of the correlation stability coefficient. Results: The centrality strength analysis identified “I feel tense and stressed” and “I have trouble concentrating” as core symptoms. The betweenness and closeness indices evidenced “I feel anxious and/or suffer from panic attacks” and “I feel tense and stressed” as the most relevant symptoms. The stability coefficient confirmed the network structure. Conclusion: The network analysis allowed identifying the main burnout symptoms among Brazilian nursing workers and revealed strategic targets to devise mental health promotion actions for these professionals.
Objective: To analyze the impact on the mental health of health professionals who worked during the floods that occurred in Rio Grande do Sul. Method: This qualitative study was conducted in the Vale do Taquari based on interviews with nurses, nursing technicians, a physician, and a pharmacist who worked in health services during the floods. Interviews were submitted to Bardin’s content analysis. Results: Two categories emerged: i) perceptions and feelings of professionals in the face of the challenges of the floods, focusing on the impacts on the mental health of health professionals, including individual and collective suffering, intense fear, and anticipatory anxiety, with lasting repercussions; and ii) coping strategies used by health professionals during the floods, highlighting the formation of support networks, team unity, dialogue, and the reorganization of workflow. Conclusion: The mental health of professionals was significantly impacted, marked by suffering, intense fear, and persistent anxiety. Despite the difficulties, protective strategies were developed, such as the construction of support networks, strengthening of dialogue, and reorganization of work. Prior preparation of professionals and the health care network for action in climate crisis situations is recommended, with the aim of minimizing harm.
With the advent of artificial intelligence (AI) and its developments, various concerns have also arisen. Nevertheless, this rapid advance has optimized processes and made it possible to overcome stages that once required excessive time or became obsolete in the face of new technological possibilities. This milestone also encompasses the extinction of some professions and the appreciation or rise of others.
Objective: To develop and validate a socio-educational technology in the format of an audiovisual series composed of five videos, aimed at preventing cervical cancer in women aged 20 to 40. Method: A methodological study with a mixed-methods approach, conducted in two stages: development and validation of audiovisual technology. Development was based on a scoping review according to the Joanna Briggs Institute, with searches in national and international databases and gray literature. Technical-scientific validation was performed with 22 specialist nurses using the Content Validity Index (≥0.70), and the illustrative dimension was evaluated by five designers using the Suitability Assessment of Materials. Analysis included descriptive statistics and thematic analysis of suggestions. Results: The review provided the basis for five thematic scripts. The global Content Validity Index was 0.96, indicating high agreement among specialists. Illustrative validation reached 96.9% adequacy, demonstrating technical-scientific quality and sociocultural suitability. Conclusion: The technology demonstrated content validity and illustrative quality, with potential for use in health education actions. Future evaluation with the target audience is recommended.
Objective: To analyze the association between sex, age groups, and health care among older adults in Brazil in the years 2013 and 2019. Method: A cross-sectional study using public data from the National Health Survey (PNS), which included 11,177 people aged 60 years or older in 2013 and 22,728 in 2019. The Chi-square test was used for the association analysis according to sex and age groups (60 to 69 years, 70 to 79 years, and 80 years or older). Results: Blood pressure and blood glucose monitoring, as well as medical consultations within the last year, were associated with the female sex in both years. Seeking care at a Basic Health Unit (UBS) was significantly associated with the female sex only in 2013. Older adults aged 60 to 69 years showed higher percentages for preventive care indicators, whereas emergency home care was more frequent in the age group of 80 years or older. Conclusion: The female sex and the age group of 60 to 69 years presented the highest percentages of health care. Therefore, interventions and public policies that consider the specificities of health care for the older population are relevant.
Scientific excellence in nursing does not depend solely on the social relevance of the topic under investigation, the timeliness of the problem, or the sophistication of the analytical techniques employed. It depends, above all, on the coherence among the research question, the epistemological framework, the methodological design, the analytical procedures, and the strength of the conclusions presented. This coherence constitutes one of the core elements of methodological quality. When it is weak, a study may appear formally well structured but produce inferences that are imprecise, overstated, or incompatible with its own investigative architecture.
Objective: To describe the practices of nurses working in obstetric care related to the prevention and management of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) in a public maternity hospital. Method: A descriptive field study with a qualitative approach conducted with 12 nurses working in different care sectors of a public maternity hospital. Results: Three thematic categories were identified: i) nurses’ knowledge regarding the identification of PPH; ii) strategies for the prevention, intervention, and monitoring of PPH; and iii) challenges faced by professionals when managing this postpartum emergency. Conclusion: The findings demonstrate that some nurses possess knowledge and practices consistent with care protocols. However, weaknesses were observed regarding the monitoring of blood loss and the performance of uterine massage.
Objective: To describe a week-long immersion program at the University of Michigan School of Nursing (UMSN) designed to enhance Latin American nurses’ and stakeholders’ understanding of NP education, scope of practice, regulation, and leadership, supporting context-appropriate NP role development. Methods: Experience report of the “Developing Advanced Practice Nurses in Latin America” international week. An invited cohort (N=18) from six countries participated with Spanish/Portuguese simultaneous translation. Learning activities included structured presentations on MSN/DNP pathways and competencies, simulation laboratory orientation, and clinical site visits including academic medical center inpatient units, community primary care clinic, and student-run free clinic. Results: Participants observed NP autonomy in assessment, diagnosis, prescribing, care coordination, interdisciplinary collaboration, simulation’s role in competency development, and NP contributions to quality improvement, safety, and health equity initiatives across settings. Conclusion: The immersion fostered reflective dialogue on adapting United States based NP education and practice elements to various Latin American contexts. It also strengthened delegates’ intent to advocate for standardized education, supportive regulation, and expanded nursing leadership in Latin America.
Objective: To understand the experiences of people with spinal cord injury during the transition from hospital discharge to home care. Method: This is a descriptive field study with a qualitative approach. Fifteen adults with spinal cord injury who attended an association located in southern Brazil participated. Data collection took place between April and August 2023 through semi-structured interviews, which were audio-recorded, fully transcribed, and subjected to content analysis. Results: The analysis revealed experiences marked by feelings of sadness, anger, rejection, and shock in response to the diagnosis, as well as significant changes in daily life, with repercussions for autonomy, activities of daily living, family and marital relationships, social life, sexuality, and financial stability. Weaknesses were identified in the guidance provided at the time of hospital discharge, particularly regarding self-care, prevention of complications, and adaptation at home. Conclusion: The findings reinforce the need for a systematized nursing approach focused on discharge planning, health education, and strengthening support networks, contributing to adaptation, autonomy, and quality of life for these individuals.
Objective: To describe and analyze the profile of fetal deaths and the care provided in a high-risk maternity hospital. Method: Quantitative, cross-sectional research with retrospective collection of secondary data, conducted at a high-risk maternity hospital in Curitiba, Paraná. Thirty-six stillbirth records from 35 women treated in 2022 were analyzed. Data collection occurred in 2023, featuring descriptive analysis and the application of Fisher's exact test (significance level of 7%; p=0.07). Results: Women aged between 20 and 34, classified as high-risk and multigravida, prevailed. Regarding care, 13 non-pharmacological pain relief methods were recorded, with direct involvement of nurses and physicians. Most deaths occurred in the antepartum period, with a predominance of extremely low birth weight and female fetuses. There was a statistical association between maternal risk stratification and the timing of death (p=0.06), as well as between gestational age and the total number of non-pharmacological pain relief methods applied (p=0.01). Conclusion: The study contributed to the visibility of comprehensive care in pregnancy loss, highlighting the essential role of the multidisciplinary team, the offering of care for the re-signification of grief, and the implementation of protocols for the standardization of procedures.
Objective: To describe the trajectory for the implementation of a Navigation Program for patients undergoing complex spinal surgery. Method: Descriptive study, an experience report, carried out in a large hospital located in Southern Brazil. Results: Implementation took place between September 2023 and February 2024. The trajectory included the structuring of workflows, training of the navigator nurse, and adherence to institutional policy. Central strategies involved conducting multidisciplinary boards for the individualization of patient care. We observed improved rehabilitation, pain control, and reduction of postoperative complications. Early detection of risks increased the perception of safety among navigated patients. Conclusion: The implementation of the Navigation Program in complex spinal surgeries has proven to be an effective strategy in organizing care and ensuring perioperative patient safety. The experience demonstrates that the nurse's leadership, combined with managerial and clinical competencies, is the key element for the program's sustainability and for integrated care centered on the patient's individuality. The model proves to be applicable and inspiring for the development of new initiatives in highly complex care pathways.
Objective: To understand the implementation of the Rede Bem Cuidar – Rio Grande do Sul from the perspective of managers and professionals working in primary health care. Method: Qualitative study conducted with managers and professionals linked to the program. Data collection was carried out through semi-structured interviews, conducted based on a script developed by the researchers and grounded in the Instrument for Assessing the Coordination of Health Care Networks by Primary Health Care. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: Convergence was observed in the understanding of professionals and managers regarding the program, although different perceptions and experiences related to its implementation emerged. The findings highlight both advances and challenges in the process of implementing the initiative. Overall, participants reported significant changes in health care for older adults, driven by the targets established by the program and by the availability of financial resources. Conclusion: The Rede Bem Cuidar has the potential to promote relevant changes in health care for older adults. However, challenges remain to be overcome to consolidate its implementation and to improve the quality-of-care actions directed toward this population.
Objective: To describe characteristics related to child and adolescent mental health in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Method: This was a cross-sectional, exploratory-descriptive study with a quantitative approach, conducted at a Child and Adolescent Psychosocial Care Center in the state of Ceará, Brazil. The convenience sample consisted of 185 medical records. Sociodemographic and clinical variables were extracted between August and October 2023. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: A total of 185 medical records were analyzed. There was a predominance of female users (58.9%) and individuals aged 12–17 years (65.4%). The most frequent diagnoses were anxiety disorders (45.9%) and mood disorders (28.1%). The main symptoms that led to seeking care included generalized anxiety (62.7%), suicidal ideation (35.1%), social isolation (31.9%), and psychomotor agitation (25.4%). Among children with autism spectrum disorder, reports of sensory disorganization and loss of previously acquired skills were common. Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic intensified the demand for child and adolescent mental health care, with a predominance of anxiety and mood disorders. The findings highlight the need for public policies and clinical strategies aimed at mitigating the long-term effects of the health crisis in this vulnerable population and strengthening the psychosocial care network.
Objective: To analyze the contributions of laboratory skills training to the education of nursing undergraduates regarding medication administration routes. Method: An analytical, observational, cross-sectional study conducted with 39 students from a public higher education institution. Data collection was performed via an electronic form containing the Student Satisfaction and Self-Confidence in Learning Scale. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: The scores obtained evidenced high levels of satisfaction and self-confidence among nursing undergraduates within the context of laboratory skills training. The scale items presented a predominantly positive distribution, indicating a favorable perception by participants regarding simulation-mediated practical activities. Conclusion: The findings indicate that laboratory skills training, mediated by simulation-based experiences, is associated with high levels of satisfaction and self-confidence among nursing undergraduates. The results reinforce the relevance of simulation-based experience as a pedagogical strategy in nursing education, as it fosters the integration of theory and practice and supports initial training within the context of clinical care.
Objective: To analyze the prevalence of hospital claim denials related to nursing documentation in a Coronary Care Unit of a private hospital. Method: A retrospective, exploratory, descriptive study, with data collection on claim denials from health insurance operators between March 2023 and March 2024. Results: A total of 1,567 claim denials were analyzed, amounting to R$ 21,329.47 in financial losses. The most frequently denied items were venous puncture materials (26%), dressings (23%) and medications (20%). The main reasons were lack of coverage and use without justification (71%), in addition to missing documentation, which accounted for 70% of the monetary value denied. Conclusion: The study highlights challenges in material management and nursing care, reinforcing the need for accurate documentation to improve patient safety and the financial sustainability of hospital services. Absence and/or incompleteness of documentation in medical records significantly contributed to the claim denials assessed in the Coronary Care Unit.
Objective: To evaluate the implications of the computerization of risk prediction scales for pressure injury and falls in nursing process records, considering the stages of patient assessment, diagnosis, and progress notes. Method: This quantitative, observational, and retrospective study analyzed the computerization of risk prediction scales in a university hospital in the southern region of Brazil. Data were obtained from the electronic patient record. The sample consisted of 764 medical records of adult patients hospitalized in clinical and surgical units, including 382 records from the period prior to and 382 from the period after the computerization of the scales. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics with IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows software. Results: A significant improvement was observed in the recording of scores from the pressure injury and falls risk prediction scales in the assessment, diagnosis, and progress stages of the nursing process in the period after computerization. The nursing diagnoses identified in the records were related to the final scores of the predictive scales. Conclusion: The computerization of risk prediction scales was associated with an increase in records across the stages of the nursing process and may contribute to the safety and quality of care provided to patients.
Objective: To describe the elements of a middle-range theory about the adaptation process in people with traumatic spinal cord injuries, based on Roy's Adaptation model. Method: A theoretical research study of an explanatory and prescriptive nature, by means of the General Method of Theory Building in Applied Disciplines and of theorization strategies using terminological components for situation-producing theories. Results: The theory was applied to individuals aged at least 18 years old undergoing an adaptation process to spinal cord injuries, in a period of three years after the trauma. Concepts and inter-relations were defined. The research presented 10 relational assertions, 9 theoretical proposals and a number of technologies that guide the Nursing Process. Conclusion: The adaptation process in people with traumatic spinal cord injuries is presented by means of coping responses that arise in the scope of physiological human responses, of self-concept, of role changes and of inter-dependence, modulated by the meaning of life, by previous experiences and by internal stances in relation to the challenges, producing effective or impaired responses.
