ROLE OF NURSING IN CARING FOR PATIENTS WITH DEPRESSION IN PRIMARY CARE

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the role of nurses in caring for patients with depression in Primary Health Care, emphasizing the strategies adopted to promote comprehensive care. This is a narrative literature review with a descriptive-exploratory approach, conducted in the Virtual Health Library (VHL) between April and May 2025. Studies published between 2015 and 2025, in Portuguese, with free access, and related to the topic were included. A total of 44 articles were initially identified, of which 16 met the inclusion criteria and were included in the critical analysis. The results demonstrated that depression is a growing public health problem, with significant impacts on different population groups, including students, faculty, professionals, and the elderly. In this context, nurses play a central role in early symptom recognition, welcoming, and qualified listening, in addition to liaising with the multidisciplinary team and the Psychosocial Care Network. Strategies such as individualized treatment plans, home visits, and health education have proven effective in improving treatment adherence and patient quality of life. The conclusion is that nurses' role in primary care is crucial for promoting comprehensive, humane, and evidence-based care, contributing to prevention, early diagnosis, and reducing the stigma associated with depression.