Pap smears in pregnant women: knowledge of nurses working in units of primary health care

Abstract

Objective: to investigate the nurses' knowledge of gynecological Pap smears performed in pregnant women attending Primary Health Units (UAPS), Fortaleza-CE. Methods: a descriptive, cross-sectional study conducted in three UAP, with a sample of 27 nurses. Data were obtained through a questionnaire and the analysis used was the Epi-info program. Results: the data showed that the majority of nurses, 17 (62,97%), does not perform the gynecological examination in pregnant women. From nurses who perform, 3 (7,4%) make the collection incorrectly. About participating in trainings on prenatal and gynecological examination, 24 (88,8%) reported previous participation. Conclusion: thus, systematic and effective training aiming to overhaul the welfare practices that are established in the family health programs are necessary.