Food and nutrition actions in primary health care

Le résumé fourni par la source

Objective: To characterize food and nutrition actions implemented in primary health care (PHC). Method: This quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional study collected data from professionals working in Primary Health Care Units between July and December 2022 in a municipality located in the metropolitan region of São Paulo, Brazil. Food and nutrition actions were characterized using the Primary Health Care Nutrition Care Assessment Instrument. Knowledge and use of the Dietary Guidelines for the Brazilian Population were assessed using knowledge and self-efficacy measurement scales. Absolute and relative frequencies, means, 95%CI, medians, and 25th and 75th percentiles were calculated. Results: A total of 22 health professionals participated in the study, predominantly nurses and unit managers. The absence of nutritionists was identified in all evaluated units, along with limited implementation of food and nutrition surveillance practices among the population. Health promotion actions were mainly focused on physical activity and dietary habit changes, with little or no use of the Dietary Guidelines for the Brazilian Population. Conclusion: The implementation of nutrition care actions, particularly regarding knowledge and use of the Dietary Guidelines for the Brazilian Population, was limited, which compromises the quality of health promotion initiatives and the comprehensiveness of health care. The implementation of multidisciplinary teams, investment in continuing education, and the development of health promotion actions based on population needs are necessary.

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