THE NURSE'S ROLE IN THE TREATMENT OF A TUBERCULOSIS PATIENT IN PRIMARY HEALTH CARE

Abstract

Tuberculosis is an infectious disease that poses a serious public health problem in Brazil, especially in contexts of social vulnerability. Despite advances in diagnosis and treatment, poor adherence to the therapeutic regimen remains a major challenge to disease control. This study aimed to analyze the role of the nurse in the treatment of tuberculosis in Primary Health Care (PHC), highlighting their contribution to treatment adherence, patient welcoming, and health promotion. The present literature review was conducted to theoretically support the nurse's role in the follow-up of tuberculosis patients in PHC, particularly regarding treatment adherence, humanized care, and educational strategies. The study revealed that factors such as low educational level, smoking, social stigma, and poor housing conditions directly influence adherence to tuberculosis treatment. The nurse's role proved essential in integrating educational activities, qualified listening, and the monitoring of Directly Observed Treatment (DOT). Building a strong bond with the patient, continuous follow-up, and multidisciplinary support were decisive in ensuring therapeutic success. Based on the results, it is concluded that nurses in PHC play a central role in addressing tuberculosis, promoting humanized care and health education actions that support treatment adherence, significantly contributing to disease control and improving patients' quality of life.