NURSING CARE FOR CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS WHO ARE VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE: CLINICAL MANAGEMENT IN PRIMARY CARE

Abstract

Domestic violence against children and adolescents constitutes a serious public health problem, causing significant harm to child and adolescent development. In Primary Health Care, nurses occupy a highly strategic position, often being responsible for the first contact with the victim. This study aimed to identify the main clinical and psychosocial indicators that assist nurses in this screening, as well as to discuss the challenges faced by this professional in the daily routine of primary care. Methodologically, this is a critical-analytical reflection study, developed from a narrative bibliographic survey based on scientific literature and current legal references, such as the Statute of the Child and Adolescent (ECA) and the guidelines of the World Health Organization (WHO). The results show that effective screening requires the professional to have a broader perspective, capable of decoding subjective and behavioral signs that transcend physical marks. However, the implementation of this care faces severe barriers, such as the cultural normalization of violence as a pedagogical method, the fear of reprisals, and severe gaps in academic training. It is concluded that the objectives were achieved, revealing that normative advances, such as the Henry Borel Law, depend on strengthening intersectoral action and continuous investments in continuing education. Only by sharing the responsibility for notifications between health, social assistance, and legal bodies will it be possible to overcome the institutional isolation of nurses and ensure the consolidation of a culture of protection that guarantees victims a healthy and violence-free development.