Conhecimento, atitudes e práticas sobre os riscos e perigos ocupacionais em agentes comunitários de saúde que trabalham no controlo da Tuberculose: estudo qualitativo nos centros de saúde do Distrito da Matola, 2024

Abstract

Introdution: Tuberculosis is still a global health problem. Mozambique has an incidence rate of 361/100,000, not only affecting the community, but it can also be contracted in the workplace. And one of the strategies for reversing the incidence is case control through actions implemented by Community Health Workers, but little is known about their knowledge of the risks and dangers that these actions can pose. Objective: to analyze the knowledge, attitudes and practices of community health agents working in tuberculosis control in relation to the risks and dangers to which they are exposed. Methods: an exploratory study with a qualitative approach was carried out in 3 health centers in the district of Matola, with the participation of 29 Community Health Agents whose selection was intentional and among whom 28 were accompanied in field activities in order to observe their attitudes in practice. Data analysis: the Bardin 2011 analysis technique was used after transcription and grouping into larger units. Results: it was noted that the community health agents have satisfactory knowledge about tuberculosis, their attributions, understand the risks to which they are exposed and the need for preventive measures to be observed correctly and in combination. The activities in the field also showed that despite their knowledge, their perception of the risks and dangers is not present at all times when they are working. Conclusion: Community health workers recognize and are aware of the risks and dangers to which they are exposed, although they sometimes minimize them. It is therefore essential to intensify awareness and understanding of the risks and dangers of tuberculosis and not just to worry about meeting the targets assigned to them. Studies on the prevalence of agents affected by the disease are also recommended