Opinion of nursing aids and nursing technicians about the nursing process

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the perception of nursing auxiliaries and technicians about nursing care systemization (NCS) and the legal aspects of their participation in this process, about the contribution of this method in the organization of care services and the activities they perform. This descriptive study involved 77 professionals at a teaching hospital in the countryside of São Paulo’s state/Brazil, in 2006. The data, collected through a questionnaire and Likert-type scale, revealed that the professionals recognize the use of NCS in their work sector, but do not relate their activities to the method. Most professionals indicated that they contribute by receiving the patient at the unit, collecting data like heart frequency, blood pressure and temperature, and by elaborating nursing prescriptions. They also mention participating in assessment, communicating the changes observed. It is concluded that nursing auxiliaries’ and technicians’ participation in this method remains obscure, that they do not perceive their attributions. This fact is strengthening by the biased understanding of legislation, evidencing the urgent need to include this theme in the curriculum of nursing auxiliary and technician courses, clarifying the attributions and responsibilities of each nursing team member.