Disciplinarum Scientia | Saúde

Difficulties experienced by nurses in reception and risk classification: an integrative review

Juliana Cordeiro Martins — 2025-04-14

Introduction: Risk Classification and Reception (ACCR) is a guideline for organizing the urgent and emergency care network, aiming to manage patient demand by identifying those requiring immediate care and organizing cases that can wait - this being a role assigned to nursing professionals. Objective: To analyze the main difficulties faced by nurses in implementing ACCR in the context of urgent and emergency care, based on the literature. Methodology: This is an integrative literature review using the digital library Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), the Virtual Health Library (VHL) for the LILACS (Latin American and Caribbean Literature on Health Sciences) and the Nursing Database (BDEnf), as well as Scopus, Web of Science, PUBMED, and Embase, including articles from the last ten years (2013-2022). The search was conducted between August and October 2023. Results: A total of 209 articles related to the topic were found in the databases, and eight were selected for this review. The study sought to highlight the main challenges experienced by nurses, both personally and in the work environment, as well as the functioning of ACCR from their perspective. Conclusion: The main difficulties identified include the lack of nurse training, insecurity, lack of knowledge about the protocol used, overcrowding, insufficient information provided to users regarding the ACCR process, stress, and work overload.

In vitro antiprotozoal activity of crude extract and leaf partitions of Diplopterys Pubipetala (Malpighiaceae)

Veronica de Melo Sacramento — 2025-06-27

The in vitro antiprotozoal activity of the hydroethanolic extract and its partitions (hexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, and methanol) from Diplopterys pubipetala (Malpighiaceae) leaves was evaluated against the protozoa Trypanosoma cruzi, Leishmania amazonensis, and Plasmodium falciparum. The samples were obtained from the collection of young, healthy leaves and subjected to the preparation of the hydroethanolic extract and subsequent partitioning, following previously established methodologies. In the biological assays, all samples showed less than 30% inhibition of protozoan activity, failing to meet the minimum criteria for the characterization of relevant biological activity. These results are consistent with the literature, which also reports low antiprotozoal activity in Malpighiaceae species, although some have demonstrated phytotherapeutic potentials related to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities in recent studies. It is concluded that further studies are required to investigate natural compounds as promising alternatives in the development of treatments for neglected diseases caused by protozoa.

Incidence of cytopathological changes in patients attended by the brazilian Public Health System (SUS) in the central region of Rio Grande do Sul: analysis of cervical cancer screening

Hellen Lucas Mertins — 2025-06-27

Cervical cancer is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality among women in Brazil and can be prevented through HPV vaccination and cytopathological screening. This study aimed to determine the incidence of cytopathological changes in women treated by the SUS in the central region of Rio Grande do Sul. This is a quantitative, retrospective, and analytical study using data from cytopathological exams performed between January 2022 and July 2023 in 22 municipalities in the central region. During this period, 28,524 Pap smear tests were performed, with an average coverage rate of 23.2 %. Of these exams, 2.5 % showed cervical lesions, with ASC-US being the most frequent lesion (36.7 %), followed by LSIL (21.5 %) and HSIL (11.9 %). The highest incidence of lesions was observed in the age groups of 45 to 54 years (26.0 %), 35 to 44 years (23.9%), and 25 to 34 years (22.8 %). Most lesions (85.1 %) occurred in women aged 25 to 64 years - the age group recommended for the test. The analysis revealed significant variations in coverage among the municipalities. The highest incidence of cervical lesions occurred in the 45 to 54 age group, coinciding with greater adherence to the exam. The results highlight the need to expand public health policies, intensify educational campaigns, strengthen HPV vaccination, and address inequalities in access to healthcare services.

Work and processes of mental illness: an analysis of the absences of public servants in the city of Santa Maria/RS

Marcia Goularte Marques — 2025-06-27

This article discusses the relationship between work and mental illness among civil servants in Santa Maria/RS. The general objective was to understand the relationships between work and mental illness based on the analysis of absences of public servants. The specific objectives were: a) to carry out a survey of absences due to mental illness; b) to analyze the data obtained to current issues in the world of work; c) to discuss proposals for the prevention of mental health. As a method, a documentary survey of sick leave was carried out, looking for the information: diagnoses, departments of employment, gender and length of leave. A narrative review of the literature was then carried out, relating the survey to current literature. As a result, between 2021 and 2022, 171 civil servants were absent from their jobs, predominantly female health professionals, with emotional issues such as overload, exhaustion and stress standing out. In conclusion, the study pointed to the importance of defensive strategies in the face of psychological distress and the need for greater knowledge about the causal link between work and psychological distress in order to establish preventive and promotional measures for workers’ health.

The experience of fatherhood: between challenges and possibilities

Emanuelle Kist Leturiondo — 2025-07-03

Objective: to understand the meanings, challenges and possibilities for men in the experience of fatherhood. Methodology: qualitative research, developed between July and October 2021, with 10 parents. Semi-structured individual interviews were used, followed by thematic content analysis. Results: fatherhood was defined from the perspective of the man’s participation and responsibility for caring for his partner and child. Among the challenges, there was a restriction on health professionals regarding the presence of fathers in baby care, the hours of care and legislation, which impact their participation in this process. They suggest that health professionals encourage paternal inclusion and the development of educational strategies that allow greater instrumentalization for the development of maternal and child care. Conclusion: Men are breaking old paradigms of being the breadwinners of the home and establishing a new experience of fatherhood. Fathers need to be included to improve parental well-being and the bond with the baby. Educational strategies are needed to enable men to be better equipped to develop maternal and child care.

Bioactive compounds and quality control of medicinal plants, marketed in the city of Santa Maria-RS

Maria Eduarda Paulo Portella — 2025-07-24

Brazilian flora is rich, and the use of medicinal plants in their natural form is a common practice. This study evaluated the physicochemical and microbiological quality, as well as the bioactive compounds of teas sold in pharmacies in Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul. Water activity, microbiological parameters, and the content of phenolic compounds and flavonoids were analyzed, along with antioxidant activity assessed by the 2,2’-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2’-azino-bis\[3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid] (ABTS) methods. The results revealed that all samples had water activity levels above the recommended limits and microbiological contamination exceeding acceptable standards, indicating shortcomings in quality control. Nevertheless, the teas showed high levels of bioactive compounds and significant antioxidant activity, suggesting potential health benefits. It is concluded that, although these teas have functional potential, improving inspection and production processes is essential to ensure safe consumptio n.

Epicatechin as a modulator of mitochondrial function in THP-1 lineage monocytes

Djenifer Leticia Ulrich Bick — 2025-08-04

Public health problems are increasingly prevalent worldwide, and many diseases have a multifactorial nature and complex pathophysiology. In this context, mitochondrial dysfunction has emerged as a recent target of investigation, being observed in several conditions such as neurodegenerative and metabolic diseases, highlighting the complexity of their treatment. Given this scenario, the search for new therapeutic alternatives that act at the mitochondrial level represents an important focus of research. Epicatechin (EC), a flavonoid found in various plants, possesses well-known beneficial biological properties. This study aims to analyze the effects of EC in reversing mitochondrial damage induced by known oxidative agents. THP-1 monocyte cell lines were exposed to rotenone, sodium azide, or sodium nitroprusside and subsequently treated with epicatechin. Assays were performed to evaluate cell viability, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, nitric oxide release, the presence of extracellular double-stranded DNA (dsDNA), and DNA damage through the alkaline comet assay. The results are consistent with the literature and indicate that, at certain concentrations, EC can attenuate the induced damage in the evaluated parameters, demonstrating potential as a cellular protective agent. Thus, EC shows the ability to protect cells and minimize mitochondrial damage, highlighting its promise as a therapeutic candidate for further investigation.

Hypertensive syndromes in pregnancy from the perspective of mobile emergency service nurses

Talita Menezes Lopes — 2025-08-04

Objective: To analyze the perceptions and experiences of nurses regarding the care of hypertensive syndromes in pregnancy within the Emergency Medical Service. Method: This is a qualitative study conducted with eight nurses using semi-structured interviews and thematic content analysis. Results: Most participants reported experience in managing hypertensive syndromes in pregnancy. They mentioned checking vital signs, initiating continuous cardiac monitoring, auscultating fetal heartbeats, establishing peripheral venous access, lateralizing the pregnant woman, and administering medications. However, they pointed out the lack of antihypertensive medications for managing these situations, concerns about care during convulsive crises, and inadequate prenatal care for pregnant women. Final thoughts: The nurses demonstrated knowledge and skills to identify and manage hypertensive syndromes in pregnancy. There is a need to provide the necessary medications for managing these conditions in the service, as well as to emphasize the importance of prenatal care and blood pressure control.

Retrospective study of neonatal screening with pulse oximetry in a secondary care maternity hospital

Débora Stefanello Golart Gobbi — 2025-08-14

Objectives: To assess the incidence of abnormal pulse oximetry screening (CCHD screening) results in newborns and analyze its usefulness for the early detection of congenital heart diseases. Methods: This was a descriptive, quantitative, and retrospective study, conducted through the review of 3,282 medical records of newborns admitted between 2020 and 2022 in a secondary care maternity hospital in the countryside of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Data were collected by a trained multidisciplinary team using a standardized form extracted from electronic medical records. Information was organized in Microsoft Excel® spreadsheets and analyzed using descriptive statistics, with results presented as absolute and relative frequencies. Newborns who were transferred within 24 hours of life or who required oxygen therapy in the first 48 hours were excluded. Results: Of the 3,282 neonates evaluated, 10 (0.3 %) presented abnormal results on pulse oximetry screening. Of these, four cases were confirmed as congenital heart diseases, including patent foramen ovale, tricuspid regurgitation, and ventricular septal defect. The other six cases did not show relevant cardiac alterations after further examinations. Conclusion: Pulse oximetry screening proved to be a useful tool for neonatal screening and early detection of congenital heart diseases. Its implementation enables timely referral of newborns with abnormal findings to specialized services, which may contribute to reducing neonatal morbidity and mortality. The findings of this study reinforce the importance of systematic pulse oximetry screening in secondary care maternity hospitals.

Assessment of hygienic and sanitary conditions in food and nutrition service units in the Campinas-SP region

Luciene Trindade da Silva Porto — 2025-09-19

The increasing demand for meals consumed outside the home, driven by lifestyle changes and limited time for cooking, underscores the importance of maintaining hygiene and sanitary standards in food service operations. Food safety relies heavily on strict adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). This study evaluated the hygienic and sanitary conditions of six private Food and Nutrition Service Units (FNSUs) in the Campinas metropolitan area, São Paulo, Brazil; including two schools, two institutional units, and two long-term care facilities for the elderly. Compliance and non-compliance rates were assessed following the criteria established by Stangarlin et al. (2013b). The results revealed substantial variability across the units, with ratings ranging from excellent (91%) to poor (40%). Non-conformities were particularly prevalent in units serving vulnerable populations, highlighting gaps in regulatory compliance. The findings emphasize that systematic use of assessment tools, combined with corrective action plans and ongoing staff training, is essential to ensure the delivery of safe food and adherence to current legislation.

Non-diabetic young and adults’ knowledge about diabetes: an exploratory study

Leticia da Silva Costa — 2025-09-19

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder associated with sedentary behavior, inadequate lifestyle, and unhealthy eating habits, increasingly affecting the Brazilian and global population. Public awareness about the various aspects of this disease is crucial for its prevention. This study aimed to investigate the knowledge of a group of non-diabetic young adults regarding diabetes, particularly type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM), identifying the discrepancies between the knowledge of this population and scientific knowledge. The research adopted a qualitative-quantitative, exploratory approach. Two distinct groups of young adults, aged between 18 and 44 years, participated in the study. A theoretical framework on diabetes was developed, from which a questionnaire was created and administered to the participants. The results revealed that, although some respondents demonstrate satisfactory knowledge about the disease, a significant portion of respondents showed considerable knowledge gaps in their understanding of diabetes. These data indicate that access to accurate information and the the promotion of preventive health is fundamental to improving this scenario. It is concluded that educational strategies focused on disseminating accurate information about diabetes, especially to young adults, are essential for preventing and controlling this disease, contributing to the reduction of its incidence and impact on public health.

Temporal trends and spatial analysis of elder abuse cases in the state of Piauí

Eduarda Vitória Lima de Oliveira — 2025-11-14

Introduction: The World Health Organization defines violence as the intentional use of force or power, threatened or actual, against oneself, another person, or against a group or community. Objective: To analyze the epidemiological profile of violence against older adults in the state of Piauí. Methodology: This was an ecological, quantitative study using data from the Notifiable Diseases Information System for Piauí between 2010 and 2022. The reported cases were tabulated, and spatial analyses were conducted. Results: Most victims were male (n=740; 54.9%), of mixed race (n=782; 69.6%), and had low educational attainment (n=237; 46.8%). The predominant age group was 60 to 69 years (n=686; 58.4%), and most were married (n=534; 52.2%). Physical violence was the most common type (n=1022; 57.9%). Most incidents occurred in the victim’s residence (n=819; 75.6%), and the primary perpetrators were their children (n=216; 23.6%). Regarding spatial analysis, the highest rates of violence were identified in seven health regions. The primary cluster, which includes the regions of Entre Rios and Carnaubais, showed a 1.93-fold higher risk of violence. Conclusion: Violence against older adults impacts their lives, primarily through physical and psychological aggression. Therefore, the formulation of effective policies is crucial to address this public health issue.

Consumption of food with resistant starch in people with Diabetes Mellitus 2

Matheus Darós Silva — 2025-11-14

Resistant starch (RS) is a type of carbohydrate that is not digested in the small intestine and is fermented in the colon. Present in foods such as rice, beans, and green bananas, it promotes metabolic benefits, including better glycemic control. Objective: To analyze the consumption of foods containing RS by people with type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). Methodology: Descriptive and quantitative study, of a cross-sectional nature. Data collection occurred through a Google Forms questionnaire applied to individuals diagnosed with T2DM, evaluating the consumption of 36 foods and preparations containing RS, classified as types 1, 2, 3, and 4, distributed among legumes, fruits, cereals, oilseeds, tubers, and starches. In addition to food frequency, the form of food storage was analyzed, including refrigeration, freezing, and dry storage, considering its influence on starch retrogradation. Results: Most participants (80.77%) did not present complications associated with T2DM. Daily consumption of foods with RS was observed, the most frequent being rice (84%), bread (62%) and beans (54%). Refrigeration was the main form of storage (50%), favoring the formation of RS type 3, associated with metabolic benefits, such as better glycemic control, lower insulin response, modulation of the intestinal microbiota and increased satiety. Conclusion: RS consumption was present daily in the participants’ diet, mainly in refrigerated form, favoring the formation of type 3 AR. This dietary pattern may represent a complementary nutritional strategy in the management of T2DM, although further research is needed to clarify its clinical effects.