THE ROLE OF NURSES IN PRIMARY HEALTH CARE UNITS IN PROMOTING AND ENCOURAGING EXCLUSIVE BREASTFEEDING: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Introduction: Breastfeeding offers multiple nutritional, immunological, and emotional benefits for both the newborn and the nursing mother, and the assistance provided by nurses in Primary Health Care Units is essential for the success of this practice. Objective: To analyze the role of nurses in Primary Health Care Units in encouraging and promoting exclusive breastfeeding, identifying the main strategies used and the challenges faced. Methods: Descriptive study with a qualitative approach, of the literature review type. Results: Nurses play a fundamental role in breastfeeding, especially during the guidance given to postpartum women, through educational activities and in the continuous care offered to mothers and babies, being a key element in the implementation of programs and policies focused on maternal and child health. The relevance of continuing education for these professionals and intersectoral services to ensure the success of breastfeeding practices in Brazil is also highlighted. Conclusion: Programs and strategies that empower these professionals are fundamental, since they are directly involved in the pregnancy-puerperium cycle, in which their direct participation is an essential factor for greater adherence to exclusive breastfeeding and reduction of early weaning in the country.