Effects of auriculotherapy on nausea and vomiting in pregnant women: A randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Pregnancy induces physiological changes, commonly marked by nausea and vomiting in the first trimester, posing risks for both mother and baby. This study evaluates the effects of auriculotherapy on nausea and vomiting during the first trimester of pregnancy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A randomized clinical trial was conducted in two primary health care centers with 56 Brazilian pregnant women who reported nausea or vomiting in the first trimester. The participants were divided into an intervention group (auriculotherapy with seeds) and a placebo group (sham auriculotherapy). The intervention was divided into three moments: pre-intervention with assessment of nausea and vomiting and application of questionnaires, and two follow-ups conducted on the fourth and seventh day of the intervention, with reassessment of nausea and vomiting.

RESULTS

Both groups experienced a decrease in nausea and vomiting over time, with no statistically significant differences between groups in the within-group analyses at various time points. The intervention group had a greater reduction in symptoms. Within the intervention group, symptoms were more common among ferrous sulfate users and those without reported dietary disturbances. In addition, a higher incidence of nausea and vomiting was associated with the use of analgesics, morning snacks, and low intake of protein, vegetables, and fruits.

CONCLUSIONS

The intervention did not affect the between-group differences in the incidence of nausea and vomiting and vomiting effort in the first trimester of pregnancy. However, a greater reduction was observed in the intervention group.

Factors associated with antepartum pilgrimage at a reference maternity hospital in Ceará

OBJECTIVE

To identify factors associated with antepartum pilgrimage in pregnant women in Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil.

METHOD

A cross-sectional study with 300 postpartum women from a state reference maternity hospital, carried out from March 2020 to January 2021. The frequency of pilgrimage was estimated according to socioeconomic characteristics and prenatal care. Analysis with Pearson's chi-square test selected variables for adjusted Poisson regression.

RESULTS

The frequency of antepartum pilgrimage to more than one health service was 34.3%. Not knowing the reference maternity hospital (1.16; 95%CI: 1.04-1.30) and not living close to the reference maternity hospital (1.16; 95%CI: 1.03-1.31) were associated with the occurrence of pilgrimage among women. Personal characteristics and prenatal care were not associated.

CONCLUSION

There was an association between antepartum pilgrimage and lack of knowledge of the reference maternity hospital and residence far from that maternity hospital, which requires better team communication and the guarantee of easier access to obstetric care services, through effective implementation of regionalization of maternal care.

Prenatal care associated with neonatal outcomes in maternity hospitals: a hospital-based cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE

To verify the association between prenatal care quality indicators and neonatal outcomes in maternity hospitals.

METHOD

Hospital-based cross-sectional study in four high-risk referral maternity hospitals in the five health macro-regions enabled by the Stork Network in Ceará-Brazil. Between April 2017 and July 2018, 440 puerperal women were interviewed using simple probabilistic sampling and a formula with finite populations and stratification of each maternity hospital. The analysis involved Pearson's Chi-Square, Adjusted Residuals Analysis and Fisher's Exact.

RESULTS

There was an association between fewer consultations with prematurity and low birth weight. Delivery in the maternity hospital where the woman lived was associated with low birth weight and the need for ventilatory support.

CONCLUSION

Prenatal care quality indicators influenced neonatal outcomes, which underlines the importance of ensuring access and quality of care as ways of reducing infant morbidity and mortality.

Factors associated with infant feeding intention among usual-risk pregnant women

OBJECTIVE

To identify the factors associated with infant feeding intention among usual-risk pregnant women.

METHODS

A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted in two primary healthcare institutions in Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil, with usual-risk pregnant women. A non-probabilistic convenience sampling method was used, and 119 pregnant women participated. Data collection took place from May 2022 to February 2023. The data collection process involved using forms and the Infant Feeding Intention Scale. Ethical considerations were strictly adhered to.

RESULTS

The study revealed statistically significant differences in the infant's means. The majority of pregnant women (96.6%) declared that they would breastfeed after giving birth. The intention to breastfeed exclusively was statistically higher in mothers with younger children and previous experience of breastfeeding or complications in the current pregnancy.

CONCLUSION

This study clarified that the intention to breastfeed up to 6 months is influenced by variables encompassing the age of the youngest child, previous breastfeeding experience, and pregnancy complications, emphasizing the intricate nature of the determinants of intention to breastfeed.

Epidemiologia do HIV em gestantes e sua relação com o período da pandemia de COVID-19

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar, à luz da Teoria Social Ecológica, a evolução dos casos notificados de HIV na gestação em um estado brasileiro e sua relação com o início da pandemia de COVID-19. Método: Estudo retrospectivo, com amostra composta por todas as notificações de HIV gestacional do estado do Ceará - Brasil no período de 2017 a 2021, na plataforma IntegraSUS. A coleta de dados foi realizada em janeiro de 2022. As variáveis analisadas foram organizadas de acordo com os níveis teóricos: macrossistema, exossistema, mesossistema e microssistema. Resultados: Foram registrados 1.173 casos de HIV em gestantes. Ao comparar o período pré e pós-pandemia, observou-se redução da taxa de detecção da doença (de 231 para 122,67 gestantes) e 1,82 vezes mais chances de as mulheres não usarem antirretrovirais no parto após o início da pandemia. Houve redução de 55% de partos vaginais e de 39% de cesarianas das mulheres com diagnóstico de HIV após o início da pandemia. Conclusão A pandemia de COVID-19 causou impacto epidemiológico e assistencial, levando a uma redução do número de notificações e taxa de detecção de gestantes que vivem com HIV no estado do Ceará. Logo, reforça-se a necessidade de assegurar a cobertura de atenção à saúde, com ações de diagnóstico precoce, garantia de tratamento e uma assistência pré-natal de qualidade.

Epidemiology of HIV in pregnant women and its relationship with the period of the COVID-19 pandemic

OBJECTIVE

To analyze, in the light of the Social Ecological Theory, the progression of reported cases of HIV during pregnancy in a Brazilian state and their relationship with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHOD

Retrospective study, with a sample consisting of all reports of gestational HIV in the state of Ceará - Brazil from 2017 to 2021, on the IntegraSUS platform. Data collection was carried out in January 2022. The analyzed variables were organized according to the theoretical levels: macrosystem, exosystem, mesosystem, and microsystem.

RESULTS

A total of 1,173 cases of HIV in pregnant women were recorded. When comparing the pre- and post-pandemic period, a reduction in the disease detection rate (from 231 to 122.67 pregnant women) was observed, as well as 1.82 times more chances of women not using antiretrovirals during childbirth after the start of the pandemic. There was a 55% reduction in vaginal births and 39% in cesarean sections among women diagnosed with HIV after the start of the pandemic.

CONCLUSION

The COVID-19 pandemic had an epidemiological and care impact, leading to a reduction in the number of notifications and in the detection rate of pregnant women living with HIV in the state of Ceará. Therefore, the need to ensure health care coverage is emphasized, with early diagnosis actions, guaranteed treatment, and quality prenatal care.

Women know about perineal trauma risk but do not know how to prevent it: Knowledge, attitude, and practice

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of pelvic floor muscle (PFM) preparation for birth among postpartum women, and its related factors.

METHODS

Cross-sectional study conducted in a maternity unit among Brazilian women aged 14 years or older during the first 72 h postpartum, who desired and had vaginal birth. Sociodemographic, clinical, and obstetric data were collected using a standardized form from medical charts. A 15-question questionnaire was used to measure the KAP of PFM preparation for birth. Knowledge was categorized as: poor, average, and good.

RESULTS

In all, 326 women completed the survey (mean age 24.3 ± 6.2 years) and 167 (51.2%) women had poor knowledge. The attitude of searching for information on how to prevent perineal trauma was reported by 14 (4.3%) women. Only 13 (4.0%) participants reported that they had practiced at least one session of PFM preparation during pregnancy (PFM training, perineal massage, etc.) Multivariate analysis showed that lower educational level was associated with poor knowledge (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The KAP of PFM preparation for birth is inadequate among postpartum women. Health education regarding PFM care during pregnancy and postpartum should be addressed among pregnant women, specifically younger women with lower levels of education and income.

Factors associated with puerperal women's perception of the support received from their companions during labor and delivery

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the current study was to associate sociodemographic characteristics and satisfaction with the support received from companions during labor and delivery.

METHOD

An analytical cross-sectional study was performed in a maternity hospital in Fortaleza, Brazil, from March to August 2019, with 320 postpartum women. A form containing sociodemographic and obstetric questions, companion-related information, type of support provided, and the Birth Companion Support Questionnaire (BCSQ) were used to assess the frequency of social support behaviors. χ² and Fisher exact tests were used for statistical analyses.

RESULTS

Nonpharmacological methods were associated with an unsatisfactory perception of support, but the emotional support provided by companions was positively associated with women's satisfaction.

CONCLUSION

The findings of the current study concerning women's perceptions of the support received from their companions may allow improvements in the delivery of care to women in labor toward the humanization of obstetric practices.

Acupuncture for perceived stress in pregnant women: an intervention study

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the effects of acupuncture in the treatment of perceived stress in pregnant women.

METHOD

A before-after intervention study, carried out in a primary health unit in Fortaleza-Ceará, with 56 pregnant women. The pregnant women underwent six acupuncture sessions, with two 30-minute sessions per week. Before the first session, an instrument to collect sociodemographic, clinical, and obstetric data was applied. The Global Perceived Stress Scale (PSS10) was applied weekly to monitor the progression of stress during treatment.

RESULTS

After the intervention, there was a significant decrease in the scores of the following scale items: being upset, inability to control, nervousness, tiredness, anger, and inability to overcome stress. (p < 0.05). There was a significant increase in the score of the item control of situations (p = 0.003). There was a significant difference in the mean perceived stress of the initial session compared to the 1st, 2nd and 3rd week sessions (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The use of acupuncture to treat stress during pregnancy reduced the stress perceived by pregnant women.

Effect of educational intervention for compliance of school adolescents with the human papillomavirus vaccine

ABSTRACT Objective: to assess the effects of “Piss off, HPV!”, an educational intervention to increase adolescents’ knowledge, attitude and compliance with human papillomavirus vaccination. Method: a randomized clinical trial by cluster, carried out in six schools in two municipalities in Ceará, with 238 girls. The control group (n = 120) received routine instructions, and the intervention group (n = 118), printed message cards about the quadrivalent HPV vaccine. A pre- and post-intervention knowledge, attitude and practice survey was applied to both groups. The McNemar test, to analyze knowledge, attitude and pre- and post-intervention practice, the chi-square test, to compare compliance in relation to knowledge and attitude, and a logistic regression model, to assess vaccine compliance, were carried out. A significance level of 5% was adopted. Results: pre-intervention, knowledge was inadequate and attitude was adequate in both groups. Post-intervention, adequate knowledge and practices became greater in the intervention group. Adequate post-intervention knowledge and attitude, in addition to being 12 years of age or older, increase the chance for vaccination, explaining 70% of the practice. Conclusion: the educational intervention was effective for adolescents’ knowledge and compliance with the quadrivalent HPV vaccine. UTN: U1111-1254-5546; ReBEC: RBR-107hzdqt.

Risk factors for Central Nervous System drug use among nursing students

ABSTRACT Objectives: to verify sociodemographic, academic and health risk factors for Central Nervous System drug use among nursing students. Methods: a cross-sectional study with 199 public undergraduate students from Ceará, using Characterization Instrument, Antonovsky’s Sense of Coherence Questionnaire, Beck Depression Inventory and Beck Anxiety Inventory. Fischer’s exact test and Pearson’s chi-square test were performed, verifying an association between variables. Prevalence ratio was used. Results: a total of 34 used such drugs, with predominance of use of anxiolytics, associated with age (p=0.026), dissatisfaction with the relationship between classmates (p=0.003), insomnia (p=0.009), chronic disease (p=0.001), depression (p=0.035), and severe anxiety (p=0.023). Conclusions: using Central Nervous System drugs among students was associated with sociodemographic, academic and health factors, evidencing the need for actions promoting undergraduate students’ mental health.

Acupuntura no estresse percebido em gestantes: um estudo de intervenção

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar os efeitos da acupuntura no tratamento de estresse percebido em gestantes. Método: Estudo de intervenção do tipo antes e depois, realizado em unidade básica de saúde de Fortaleza-Ceará, com 56 gestantes. As gestantes realizaram seis sessões de acupuntura, com periodicidade de duas sessões por semana e duração de 30 minutos. Antes da primeira sessão, aplicou-se instrumento de coleta de dados sociodemográficos, clínicos e obstétricos. Semanalmente, foi aplicada a Escala Global de Estresse Percebido (PSS10) para verificar a evolução do estresse durante o tratamento. Resultados: Após a intervenção, houve uma diminuição significativa na pontuação dos seguintes itens da escala: preocupação, incapacidade de controle, nervosismo, cansaço, fúria e incapacidade de superar o estresse (p < 0,05). Observou-se aumento significativo na pontuação do item controle das situações (p = 0,003). Houve diferença significativa na média de estresse percebido da sessão inicial em relação às sessões da 1ª, 2ª e 3ª semana (p < 0,001). Conclusão: O uso da acupuntura para tratamento do estresse na gestação reduziu o estresse percebido pelas gestantes.

Efeito de intervenção educativa para adesão de adolescentes escolares à vacina contra o papilomavírus humano

RESUMO Objetivo: avaliar os efeitos da intervenção educativa “Sai fora, HPV!” para aumento do conhecimento, atitude e adesão de adolescentes à vacinação contra o papilomavírus humano. Método: ensaio clínico randomizado por conglomerado, realizado em seis escolas de dois municípios cearenses, com 238 meninas. O grupo controle (n = 120) recebeu orientações rotineiras, e o grupo intervenção (n = 118), cartões-mensagem impressos sobre a vacina HPV quadrivalente. Aplicou-se inquérito conhecimento, atitude e prática pré- e pós-intervenção em ambos os grupos. Realizaram-se Testes de McNemar, para analisar conhecimento, atitude e prática pré- e pós-intervenção, do Qui-Quadrado, para comparar adesão em relação ao conhecimento e atitude, e modelo de regressão logística, para avaliação da adesão à vacina. Adotou-se nível de significância 5%. Resultados: pré-intervenção, conhecimento era inadequado e atitude adequada em ambos os grupos. Pós-intervenção, conhecimento e práticas adequados se tornaram maior no grupo intervenção. Conhecimento e atitude adequados pós-intervenção, além da idade maior ou igual a 12, aumentam a chance para vacinação, explicando 70% da prática. Conclusão a intervenção educativa foi efetiva para conhecimento e adesão da vacina HPV quadrivalente pelas adolescentes. UTN: U1111-1254-5546; ReBEC: RBR-107hzdqt.

Effects of auriculotherapy in the treatment of nausea and vomiting: a systematic review

OBJECTIVES

to identify the effectiveness of auriculotherapy in the treatment of nausea and vomiting through a systematic review of the scientific literature.

METHODS

it was performed a systematic review of the literature making use of the following data basis: The Scopus, PubMed, CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature), Web of Science, LILACS and Cochrane databases were used. Articles from complete research from randomized controlled clinical trials that describe using auriculotherapy in nausea and vomiting treatment were selected, without restriction of date or language.

RESULTS

eleven articles were selected for analysis. The majority approached the population in surgical situations, followed by patients undergoing chemotherapy and pregnant women. As for results, 81% (n=8) of the articles reported that nausea and vomiting were lower in incidence and/or intensity in the intervention group.

CONCLUSIONS

the review provided relevant data on the effects of auriculotherapy in nausea and vomiting treatment, with a decrease in the intensity and frequency of these symptoms in different populations.

Can pelvic floor muscle training prevent perineal laceration? A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) is reportedly able to reduce risk factors for perineal trauma. However, the effects of these exercises on perineal injuries are unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effectiveness of PFMT in the prevention of perineal laceration.

SEARCH STRATEGY

Searches were conducted in PubMed/Medline, LILACS, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and CINAHL. For search strategies, we combined the terms PFMT, tear, laceration, perineum, and delivery.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomized controlled trials that evaluated the effectiveness of PFMT for the prevention of perineal laceration during vaginal delivery. There were no period or language limitations.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We conducted data extraction and synthesis. We performed a quality appraisal, a qualitative synthesis, and for meta-analysis we used the Software R.

MAIN RESULTS

Nine studies were included. In most studies, PFMT was performed daily, with a wide range of the number of contractions and sustainability. Prevalence of perineal laceration had a wide range and information on laceration degree was limited. Meta-analysis showed that PFMT was not effective to prevent perineal laceration.

CONCLUSION

Pelvic floor muscle training does not prevent perineal laceration. Further studies are needed to investigate different protocols and interventions.

Impact of the Peace Agreement on the social determinants of health in Colombia

OBJECTIVES

to analyze the impact of the Colombian Peace Agreement on the structural social determinants of health.

METHODS

a descriptive, ecological study, based on documentary data from 2008 to 2018. The records of victims, epidemiological indicators, and structural social determinants of health in Colombia were analyzed.

RESULTS

there was a correlation between the period in which the Peace Agreement process was developed and the indicators of structural determinants in health with p<0.05. With the Poisson regression analysis, the favorable correlations between the peace process and the determinants were confirmed, besides allowing the understanding of the changes in these indicators before the Peace Agreement.

CONCLUSIONS

the implementation of the peace process has a positive impact on structural social determinants of health, which is observed by the beginning of the decrease of economic, educational, health, and social inequalities and inequities, a fact that offers the possibility of living in peace.

Factors associated with the knowledge and attitude of adolescents regarding male condom use

OBJECTIVE

Identify factors associated with the knowledge and attitude regarding male condom use in school adolescents.

METHODS

Cross-sectional, quantitative, Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice survey, conducted with 114 adolescents from a public state high school from August to October 2017, in Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil.

RESULTS

The assumption of having sufficient knowledge regarding safe sex, not having a casual/dating partner, and having had three or more sexual partners in the last three months affected adequate knowledge. Higher education of the mother and not talking to the mother about sex were factors that influenced the inappropriate attitude of the participants.

CONCLUSION

The knowledge and attitude of adolescents are influenced both by their previous sexual relations and by their relationship with their mother and the level of her schooling. Thus, it is essential that health institutions promote actions aimed at sex education, with support from schools and health professionals in general.

FACTORS THAT INTERFERE IN THE QUALITY OF LIFE RELATED TO THE HEALTH OF WOMEN IN THE POSTPARTUM PERIOD IN NORTHEASTERN BRAZIL

ABSTRACT Objective to analyze the sociodemographic, obstetric, type of delivery and professional factors that provided care that can influence the quality of life related to women's health in the immediate puerperium period. Method cross-sectional, correlational study conducted in a reference maternity hospital, with 272 women in the immediate puerperium period hospitalized in the rooming-in accommodation. A sociodemographic, clinical and obstetric questionnaire and the Short Form Health Survey-36 scale were used to assess health-related quality of life. Results regarding age, there was a significant association in the domains functional capacity and general status, with better scores for ages up to 29 years. Regarding education, significance was observed in the functional capacity domain with better scores for 9 to 11 years of schooling. The analysis of obstetric complications showed statistical significance in the general health status domain p<0.05. By correlating the type of delivery and the attending professional, the mean scores showed that the domains limitation due to physical aspects, pain, vitality, social aspects, limitations due emotional aspects and mental health presented higher means for normal delivery performed by nurses, with statistical significance in the domains: pain (p<0.05), vitality (p<0.05) and mental health (p=0.05). Conclusion these analyzed factors interfere in the quality of life of women in the postpartum period. Thus, considering these questions provides complementary information to the use of the Short Form Health Survey-36, highlighting areas that need greater attention and that can be worked on even in prenatal care.

Social determinants of health and heart failure hospitalizations in Brazil

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the relationship between social determinants of health and heart failure hospitalizations in Brazil.

METHOD

A retrospective ecological study, whose units of analysis were the cities of the Brazilian states. The outcome variable was heart failure hospitalization rate. The independent variables were Family Health Strategy coverager, federal transfer to Primary Care, expenditure on Primary Care, overlapping of the female population and age group above 60 years old. Regressive techniques were adopted for panel data, with estimation of weighted least squares by fixed effect.

RESULTS

Twenty-six cities were analyzed. Hospitalization rates showed a non-uniform distribution between the areas, with lower median in the North and higher in the South. The regression model identified a relationship between hospitalization rates and Family Health Strategy coverage, federal transfer to Primary Care, and overlapping of the female population.

CONCLUSION

Heart failure occurrence, a condition sensitive to Primary Care in Brazil, is influenced by social determinants of health represented by demographic, budgetary, and health service coverage factors.

Middle range theory for the nursing diagnosis Excess Fluid Volume in pregnant women

OBJECTIVE

To stablish a middle range theory for the understanding of the causal mechanisms and clinical consequentes of the nursing diagnosis Excess Fluid Volume (00026) among pregnant women.

METHOD

The Middle Range Theory was constructed in five stages: defining of construction approach, establishing main concepts, elaborating propositions, developing a pictorial diagram, and establishing the causal relationships and evidence for practice of the Middle Range Theory.

RESULTS

We identified 14 clinical indicators and 6 causal factors of Excess Fluid Volume. A pictorial diagram was developed and relationships between Excess Fluid Volume elements were established with 6 propositions for them.

CONCLUSION

The Middle Range Theory included both physiological and pathological conditions to explain Excess Fluid Volume. This Middle Range Theory might help in the better understanding of interactions between causal factors and clinical indicators of Excess Fluid Volume.

Quality of life of high risk pregnant women during prenatal care

OBJECTIVE

to analyze the quality of life of high-risk pregnant women.

METHODS

an observational and cross-sectional study, carried out in a tertiary maternity hospital located in Fortaleza, with 276 high-risk pregnant women. A questionnaire was applied containing socioddemographic, clinical and obstetric data and The Mother-Generated Index. Descriptive analyzes were performed using the Jamovi statistical program®, version 0.9.

RESULTS

most areas were negatively influenced by pregnancy. "Satisfaction with pregnancy", "family relationship" and "relationship with the partner" obtained the highest means of primary score, while "physical condition/disposition" and "financing" obtained the lowest means. The highest secondary scores were in "satisfaction with pregnancy", "family relationship" and "relationship with the partner", while the lowest were in "financing" and "psychological/emotional".

CONCLUSION

the total primary score mean was 6.03, suggesting a good quality of life. The Mother Generated Index made it possible to identify aspects of life that go beyond pre-formulated assessments of the construct.

Sexuality and associated risk factors in pregnant women

OBJECTIVES

to assess the sexual function of pregnant women and the influence of sociodemographic, obstetric, and behavioral factors on sexual dysfunction.

METHODS

cross-sectional study conducted with 141 pregnant women attended by the Single Health System and 120 by one private service, totaling 261 participants. A questionnaire containing sociodemographic, obstetric, and behavioral variables was applied, as well as the Female Sexual Function Index instrument, which was used to assess sexual function. Associations between variables and sexual dysfunction were made using the chi-square test, considering a statistically significant result when p < 0.05.

RESULTS

among the participants, 32.1% had sexual dysfunction, and the variables "age", "income" and "type of health service" had an influence on sexual dysfunction. The prevalence of pregnant women was between 21 and 30 years old (p < 0.001), with an income between 1 and 2 minimum wages (p = 0.048) and used the public health system network (p = 0.000).

CONCLUSIONS

the factors associated with sexual dysfunction are "young pregnant women", "low income" and "attended in the public health service".

Factors associated with performing activities of daily living in women after suffering a stroke

OBJECTIVE

To associate sociodemographic variables and risk factors for stroke to the degree of dependence for performing the activities of daily living of women of childbearing age after suffering a stroke.

METHOD

A prospective and analytical longitudinal study conducted in three public hospitals in Fortaleza, CE, Brazil. The Modified Barthel Index was used at the time of attending the unit and 3 months after the stroke to assess the degree of disability in the performance of activities of daily living. The chi-squared and likelihood ratio tests were chosen to analyze the association between variables.

RESULTS

There were 109 women of childbearing age who participated in the study. There was an association between higher degrees of dependence in women from the interior/rural areas, with lower income and black people (p = 0.032, p = 0.043, p = 0.03, respectively). Regarding personal risk factors, there was a greater dependency in women with heart disease (p = 0.040), sedentary (p = 0.030) and alcoholics (p = 0.017).

CONCLUSION

The results show the factors associated with higher degrees of dependence for performing activities of daily living by women of childbearing age after the occurrence of stroke.

Professional skills for health promotion in caring for tuberculosis patients

OBJECTIVES

to understand the health promotion skills found in the speeches of health practitioners in care for TB patients.

METHODS

qualitative study, developed with seven practitioners involved in care for TB patients, identified from a sociocentric approach, whose speeches were submitted to analysis based on the health promotion skills model in the Galway Consensus.

RESULTS

there were four domains: Catalyzing change; Leadership; Planning; and Partnerships. These domains resulted from health education actions, contribution of management nursing practitioners, seeking to meet patients' needs and articulation of professional sectors.

FINAL CONSIDERATIONS

there were some skill domains in the speeches of health practitioners, with the nurse being quoted in the development of essential skills for health promotion activities, such as catalyzing change and leading care for TB patients.

Enfermagem e a prática avançada da acupuntura para alívio da lombalgia gestacional

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar os efeitos da prática de acupuntura realizada no alívio da dor lombar em gestantes que se encontram no segundo e terceiro trimestre de gravidez, bem como na execução das atividades diárias. Métodos Estudo quase experimental, antes e depois, realizado com 56 gestantes com idade gestacional entre 14 e 37 semanas e queixa referida de dor lombar. Foram realizadas seis sessões de acupuntura, duas vezes por semana, com 30 minutos, cada uma, com a aplicação de pontos sistêmicos e auriculares. Para avaliação da dor utilizou-se a Escala Analógica Visual. Foram calculadas frequência absoluta e relativa para variáveis categóricas e média e desvio padrão para variáveis numéricas. Os testes utilizados para associação foram o Wilcoxon, para medidas pareadas, e teste de McNemar. Resultados Encontrou-se redução significante (p<0,05) dos escores do índice de dor. A média da dor diminuiu na avaliação da segunda (4,92), quarta (3,24) e sexta (1,00) sessão. Algumas mulheres tiveram sua dor cessada antes de completar as seis sessões e houve melhora nas atividades prejudicadas pela dor. Conclusão A acupuntura proporcionou efeitos favoráveis à saúde das participantes, pois houve redução na dor logo a partir da segunda sessão. Acredita-se que os enfermeiros possam rever a qualidade da assistência às gestantes, a partir do conhecimento de técnicas que contribuem a um cuidado integral, pois a enfermagem tem na sua essência o processo de cuidado holístico do cliente, visando suas necessidades, contribuindo para que suas ações, enquanto profissionais de Medicina Tradicional Chinesa, sejam realizadas de maneira qualificada, eficiente e humanizada.

Social Determinants of Health and their influence on the choice of birth control methods

OBJECTIVE

To verify the association between Social Determinants of Health and birth control methods used by women of childbearing age.

METHODS

Documentary and retrospective study, performed at a Brazilian Natural Birth Center with evaluation of the medical records of patients seen between 2003 and 2011 (n=2410). Data were collected on identification and general history, gynecological, sexual and obstetric.

RESULTS

Hormone birth control methods were the most used among participants (25.0%); followed by barrier methods (21.5%) and surgical methods (19.3%). Statistical associations were observed regarding age, menarche, onset of sexual activity, pregnancy, miscarriage, smoking, hypertension, marital status, gynecological care and schooling with the choice of methods.

CONCLUSION

The results confirm the importance of studies involving Social Determinants of Health, since they interfere in the way women choose birth control methods and the risks that this choice may pose to their health.

Protocolo para tratamento de prolapso de órgãos pélvicos com pessário vaginal

Resumo Objetivo Desenvolver um protocolo clínico para o tratamento conservador do prolapso de órgãos pélvicos com pessário vaginal. Métodos Pesquisa de desenvolvimento ocorrida de julho de 2015 a janeiro de 2016 e realizada em etapas: refinamento dos tópicos/questões do protocolo; estabelecimento de recomendações para pesquisa e atualização; revisão por pares. A análise se deu por programa estatístico e pelo Índice de Validade de Conteúdo. Resultados O protocolo foi desenvolvido e avaliado por meio da técnica Delphi quanto aos critérios objetivos, conteúdo e apresentação e relevância por profissionais da área, sendo calculado o Índice de Validade de Conteúdo total de cada domínio e global. O Índice de Validade de Conteúdo total do domínio objetivos foi 1,00, do critério conteúdo e apresentação foi 0,98 e do domínio relevância, 0,96. Obteve-se o Índice de Validade de Conteúdo global de 0,98. Dessa forma, verificou-se concordância entre os participantes da técnica Delphi, com valor acima de 0,85, considerando o protocolo clínico válido. Conclusão Acredita-se que os profissionais de saúde, ao utilizar o protocolo clínico, terão maior embasamento na prática, oferecendo um cuidado de maior qualidade, pois é uma ferramenta válida e pautada cientificamente.

Social support of people with HIV/AIDS: the Social Determinants of Health Model

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the social support of people with HIV/AIDS from the perspective of the Social Determinants of Health Model.

METHOD

This was a cross-sectional study conducted in 2015 in an infectious disease outpatient clinic. The sample was made up of 116 people with HIV/AIDS. The data was collected through interviews, using a sociodemographic form and a social support scale. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, and Student's t-tests and Mann-Whitney tests were performed to determine the association between social support and the social determinants of health.

RESULTS

Total social support was satisfactory, emotional support was influenced by smoking (p=0.0432) and instrumental support, by the number of people in the household (p=0.0003). The main source of instrumental and emotional support was relatives living outside the household, corresponding to 66.7% and 56.1%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

It was found that smokers havelower emotional support and people living alone received less instrumental support.

Experiences in the Family Health Strategy: demands and vulnerabilities in the territory

Objective:

To understand the daily demands of Family Health Strategy in clinical practice of the team and social vulnerabilities of community territory.

Method:

Research with qualitative approach, in a critical-reflexive perspective, held with two teams of the Family Health Strategy, in the city of Fortaleza, State of Ceará, Brazil. The participants were 22 users and 19 health professionals from the basic health network. Data from the interviews and observation were analyzed under the assumptions of critical hermeneutics.

Results:

We highlight the unveiling of sufferings and daily clashes, the influence of social determinants on health and psychosocial demands, limits and possibilities of everyday clinical practice.

Conclusion:

The clinic attention must recognize the perceptions and living conditions by listening and promoting health in the community.

Objetivo:

Compreender as demandas cotidianas da Estratégia Saúde da Família na prática clínica da equipe e as vulnerabilidades sociais do território comunitário.

Método:

Pesquisa com abordagem qualitativa, numa perspectiva crítico-reflexiva, realizada com duas equipes da Estratégia Saúde da Família, no município de Fortaleza, Estado do Ceará, Brasil. Os participantes foram 22 usuários e 19 profissionais de saúde da rede básica de saúde. Os dados das entrevistas e observação foram analisados sob os pressupostos da hermenêutica crítica.

Resultados:

Evidenciam-se o desvelamento de sofrimentos e enfrentamentos cotidianos, a influência dos determinantes sociais na saúde e as demandas psicossociais, limites e possibilidades da prática clínica cotidiana.

Conclusão:

Considera-se que a atenção clínica deve reconhecer as percepções e condições de vida pela escuta e ações de promoção de saúde na comunidade.

Tratamento com acupuntura: avaliação multidimensional da dor lombar em gestantes

RESUMO Objetivo Avaliar os efeitos da acupuntura no tratamento da dor lombar em gestantes no segundo e terceiro trimestre de gravidez. Método Estudo quase-experimental, antes e depois, realizado com gestantes de idade gestacional entre 14 e 37 semanas, que apresentavam queixa de dor lombar. Foram realizadas sessões de acupuntura, com a aplicação de pontos sistêmicos e auriculares. Para avaliação da dor, utilizou-se do questionário McGill, além do instrumento de identificação do perfil sociodemográfico, clínico e obstétrico. Resultados A técnica de acupuntura realizada em até seis sessões, em 56 gestantes com dor lombar referida, proporcionou efeitos positivos favoráveis à saúde das participantes. Segundo a avaliação de mensuração da dor, houve redução estatisticamente significante na dor lombar das gestantes logo a partir da segunda sessão e diminuição gradativa com os avançar do número de sessões. Não houve eventos adversos graves relacionados à acupuntura. Conclusão A acupuntura ofereceu significativos efeitos para a redução ou o alívio da dor nas gestantes. As participantes denotaram satisfação e bem-estar ao sair de cada sessão.

Avaliação do processo na assistência pré-natal de gestantes com risco habitual

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar a qualidade do cuidado quanto ao processo no pré-natal de gestantes com risco habitual. Métodos Pesquisa avaliativa, realizada no período de maio de 2015 a janeiro de 2016, na Casa de Parto Natural (CPN) Lígia Barros Costa em Fortaleza, Ceará. A amostra totalizou 560 prontuários de gestantes que realizaram pré-natal na CPN. O instrumento de coleta dos dados contemplou aspectos sociodemográficos, clínicos e obstétricos, e indicadores de processo da assistência pré-natal. Os critérios adotados para avaliar o processo foram os indicadores de qualidade do pré-natal. Os dados foram armazenados e processados no programa estatístico Statistical Package for the Social Sciences versão 20.0. A análise utilizou a estatística descritiva. Resultados Quanto aos indicadores de qualidade do pré-natal, observou-se que 42,3% (n=237) atenderam ao número adequado de consultas, realizando sete ou mais consultas. Apenas 26,3% (n=147) iniciaram precocemente o pré-natal. Referente aos indicadores de qualidade dos procedimentos clínicos e obstétricos verificou-se que 55% (n=309) estava adequado. Quando analisados os indicadores de qualidade referentes aos exames laboratoriais, apenas 25,4% (n=142) estavam adequados. Conclusão Conclui-se que a qualidade do pré-natal é adequada na minoria da população estudada, devendo existir maior atenção de gestores e profissionais para o planejamento de ações em prol da melhoria dos indicadores relacionados aos números de consultas, início precoce do pré-natal, procedimentos clínicos e obstétricos e realização dos exames laboratoriais.

Maternal predictors related to quality of life in pregnant women in the Northeast of Brazil

BACKGROUND

Gestation is a period that can positively or negatively influence the life of a woman in the pregnancy-puerperal cycle. Thus, evaluating the quality of life of this population can redirect the implementation of innovative practices, with the goal of making them more effective and practical or the promotion of humanized care. The present study aimed to evaluate the predictors that influence the health-related quality of life of low-risk pregnant women, as well as to describe the main areas affected in the quality of life of pregnant women.

METHODS

A correlational, quantitative and cross-sectional study was carried out in two public units that provide prenatal care services and a private unit in the city of Fortaleza, a municipality in the Northeast of Brazil. The sample consisted of 261 pregnant women who were interviewed from September to November 2014. The collection instruments were a questionnaire covering sociodemographic, obstetric and quality of life variables, in addition to the Brazilian version of the Mother-Generated Index (MGI). The data were compiled and analyzed through the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software, version 20.0. A descriptive analysis was performed through the application of Pearson's chi-square test, Fisher's exact test and one-way ANOVA. Maternal predictors for the quality of life of pregnant woman were identified through a multivariate analysis/multiple regression.

RESULTS

The response rate was 100%, corresponding to 261 respondents. Occupation, parity, partner support, marital status and persons with whom the women live were the predictors that positively interfered in the quality of life of pregnant women. In contrast, gestational age, type of housing, occupation, use of illicit drugs, non-receipt of partner support and maternal age were the predictors that negatively influenced quality of life.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that happiness to become a mother and body image were areas with the greatest positive and negative influence on health-related quality of life, which suggests being relevant aspects in the planning and implementation of actions aimed at its improvement.

Fatores Associados à Adesão ao Aleitamento Materno Exclusivo

Resumo Estudo correlacional que objetivou verificar a associação entre variáveis maternas e aleitamento materno exclusivo em um ambulatório especializado do estado do Ceará, Brasil. Verificou-se a prática do aleitamento materno exclusivo, apresentando sua diminuição no decorrer dos seis primeiros meses de vida da criança. A maioria das mulheres era jovem, com companheiro, com bom nível de escolaridade, multigesta e que realizou até seis consultas de pré-natal em postos de saúde. Houve associação significativa entre as variáveis multiparidade e aleitamento materno exclusivo, mostrando-se como uma variável protetora para essa prática. A maioria das mulheres que amamentou exclusivamente afirmou não ter recebido orientação sobre aleitamento materno durante o pré-natal, o que evidencia a existência de outros fatores externos que podem influenciar no aleitamento materno exclusivo.

Cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the Condom Self-Efficacy Scale: application to Brazilian adolescents and young adults

Objective:

translate and adapt the Condom Self-Efficacy Scale to Portuguese in the Brazilian context. The scale originated in the United States and measures self-efficacy in condom use.

Method:

methodological study in two phases: translation, cross-cultural adaptation and verification of psychometric properties. The translation and adaptation process involved four translators, one mediator of the synthesis and five health professionals. The content validity was verified using the Content Validation Index, based on 22 experts’ judgments. Forty subjects participated in the pretest, who contributed to the understanding of the scale items. The scale was applied to 209 students between 13 and 26 years of age from a school affiliated with the state-owned educational network. The reliability was analyzed by means of Cronbach’s alpha.

Results:

the Portuguese version of the scale obtained a Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of 0.85 and the total mean score was 68.1 points. A statistically significant relation was found between the total scale and the variables not having children (p= 0.038), condom use (p= 0.008) and condom use with fixed partner (p=0.036).

Conclusion:

the Brazilian version of the Condom Self-Efficacy Scale is a valid and reliable tool to verify the self-efficacy in condom use among adolescents and young adults.

Telephone interventions in adherence to receiving the Pap test report: a randomized clinical trial

Objective:

to test the efficacy of the behavioral and educational interventions undertaken by telephone, for women’s attendance at the consultation to receive the Pap test report.

Method:

a randomized clinical trial, with a sample randomized in three groups: telephone call - educational (n=171), telephone call - reminder (n=171) and comparison (n=169). The inclusion criteria were to be of legal age, to have become sexually active, to undertake the preventive examination during the study and to have a mobile or fixed telephone. The educational group received a telephone call involving a script based in the motivational interview and in the Brazilian guidelines. The behavioral group received a telephone call involving a reminder about the consultation. The comparison group received a card with details of when to return for a consultation regarding the results.

Results:

the women who received one of the interventions had a non-return rate of 7.3% and an increase of 39% (RR CI95%: 1.24-1.55) in the protection against this outcome. In the individual analysis of the interventions, it was evidenced that both are efficacious, as the telephone call - reminder reduces the woman’s failure to return to the service by 40% (RR CI95%: 1.25-1.57), while the telephone call - educational does so by 37% (RR CI95%: 1.22-1.54). The rates of non-return were of 6.5% and 8.2%, respectively, as against 33.1% in the comparison group.

Conclusion:

the interventions tested showed greater efficacy in the educational and behavioral contexts, in relation to the normal attendance, as they motivated the women to return to the service to receive the Pap test report. Clinical trial register: RBR-w3vnc.

Influence of hormonal contraceptives and the occurrence of stroke: integrative review

ABSTRACT Objective: To identify scientific evidence regarding the influence of hormonal contraceptive use and the occurrence of stroke. Method: Integrative review of the literature, through database search using the descriptors "contraceptive agents", "contraceptive devices", "contraceptives, Oral" and "Stroke". Original studies in Portuguese, Spanish and English, published in full and available online were included. Studies that did not answer our guiding questions and duplicated studies were excluded. Results: Women using combined oral contraceptives have higher risk of stroke, even with a lower hormonal dosage and different types of progestogen, regardless of the duration of use. The use of contraceptives associated with smoking, hypertension, migraine, hypercholesterolemia, obesity and sedentary lifestyle increases the chance of stroke. Contraceptive patch and vaginal ring are associated to increased risk. Conclusion: Use of combined hormonal contraceptives, except for the injectable and the transdermal ones, increases the chance of occurrence of the event. Progestogen-only contraceptives were considered safe.

Quality of life of men with AIDS and the model of social determinants of health

OBJECTIVE:

to analyze the quality of life (QoL) of men with AIDS from the perspective of the model of social determinants of health (MSDH).

METHOD:

cross-sectional study conducted in an outpatient infectious diseases clinic from a Brazilian university hospital over the course of one year with a sample of 138 patients. A form based on the MSDH was used to collect sociodemographic data addressing individual, proximal, intermediate determinants and the influence of social networks together with an instrument used to assess the QoL of people with HIV/AIDS. The project was approved by the Institutional Review Board (Protocol No. 040.06.12).

RESULTS:

according to MSDH, most men with AIDS were between 30 and 49 years old (68.1%), mixed race (59.4%), heterosexual (46.4%), single (64.5%), Catholic (68.8%), had a bachelor's degree (39.2%), had no children (61.6%), and had a formal job (71.0%). The perception of QoL in the physical, level of independence, environment, and spirituality domains was intermediate, while QoL was perceived to be superior in the domains of psychological and social relationship. A perception of lower QoL was presented by homosexual (p=0.037) and married men (p=0.077), and those with income below one times the minimum wage (p=0.042). A perception of greater QoL was presented by those without a religion (p=0.005), living with a partner (p=0.049), and those who had a formal job (p=0.045).

CONCLUSION:

social determinants influence the QoL of men with AIDS.

Telephone interventions for adherence to colpocytological examination

Objective:

to test the effects of behavioral and educational intervention by telephone on adherence of women with inappropriate periodicity to colpocytological examination.

Method:

quasi-experimental study with a sample of 524 women, selected with the following inclusion criteria: be aged between 25 and 64 years, have initiated sexual activity, have inappropriate periodicity of examination and have mobile or landline phone. The women were divided into two groups for application of behavioral and educational intervention by telephone. It was used an intervention script according to the principles of Motivational Interviewing.

Results:

on comparing the results before and after the behavioral and educational interventions, it was found that there was a statistically significant change (p = 0.0283) with increase of knowledge of women who participated in the educational intervention. There was no change in the attitude of women of any of the groups and there was an increase of adherence to colpocytological examination in both groups (p < 0.0001), with greater adherence of women participating in the behavioral group (66.8%).

Conclusion:

the behavioral and educational interventions by phone were effective in the adherence of women to colpocytological examination, representing important strategies for permanent health education and promotion of care for the prevention of cervical cancer.

METHODOLOGICAL APPROACH IN NURSING RESEARCH FOR CONSTRUCTING AND VALIDATING PROTOCOLS

ABSTRACT Objective: to highlight the methodological approach used in thesis/dissertations for constructing and validating protocols in the Nursing area. Method: a literature review was performed online at the Library of the Center for Study and Research in Nursing, and at the Thesis Databank of the Coordination for the Improvement of Higher Education Personnel. Eight theses and 16 dissertations were included in the final sample. Results: it was found that the most common steps in constructing protocols were reviewing the scientific literature and using professionals to assist in this process. In studies related to protocol validation, the presence of groups of specialists/judges on the subject matter ranging from three to 16 in quantity was found, with the majority presenting up to ten judges. Regarding analysis of the validation process, we noticed a higher prevalence of agreement between the judges and the Content Validity Index. Conclusion: development of this type of technology constitutes a complex and multifaceted area, adapted to researchers’ expectations and objectives.

[Strategies for self-management support by patients with stroke: integrative review]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze strategies for self-management support by patients with stroke in the light of the methodology of the five A's (ask, advice, assess, assist and arrange).

METHODS

Integrative review conducted at the following databases CINAHL, SCOPUS, PubMed, Cochrane and LILACS.

RESULTS

A total of 43 studies published between 2000 and 2013 comprised the study sample. All proposed actions in the five A's methodology and others were included. We highlight the Assist and Arrange, in which we added actions, especially with regard to the use of technological resources and joint monitoring between patients, families and professionals. No study included all five A's, which suggests that the actions of supported self-management are developed in a fragmented way.

CONCLUSION

The use of five A's strategy provides guidelines for better management of patients with stroke with lower cost and higher effectiveness.

Determinantes sociais da saúde e qualidade de vida de cuidadores de crianças com câncer

RESUMO Objetivo Associar os determinantes sociais de saúde e a qualidade de vida de cuidadores de crianças com câncer. Métodos Estudo transversal, realizado em centro pediátrico do câncer, em Fortaleza/CE, com 176 participantes, durante novembro e dezembro/2013. Utilizou-se questionário contendo determinantes sociais de saúde e World Health Quality of Life-Bref para a avaliação da qualidade de vida. Foram correlacionados os determinantes com as médias dos domínios da qualidade de vida, utilizando a análise de variância (ANOVA). Resultados Houve significância estatística na associação entre o domínio das relações sociais e a escolaridade (p=0,01792) e entre o domínio psicossocial e o sexo do cuidador (p=0,01901). Os cuidadores do sexo masculino, nível educacional alto, mais jovens, casados, do lar e procedentes do interior possuem melhor qualidade de vida. Conclusão O estudo permitiu a compreensão da influência dos determinantes sociais de saúde na qualidade de vida de cuidadores de crianças com câncer.

Validation of the Adherence Determinants Questionnaire scale among women with breast and cervical cancer

Objectives:

the aim was to translate and culturally adapt the Adherence Determinants Questionnaire scale for the Portuguese language in the Brazilian context, and to check its reliability and validity to analyze the elements of the adherence of patients to the clinical treatment for breast and cervical cancer.

Method:

this was a methodological study, carried out in two oncology reference centers. The sample consisted of 198 participants, with 152 being treated for breast cancer and 46 being treated for cervical cancer. The content validation was performed by a committee of experts. The construct validation was demonstrated through factor analysis and the reliability was analyzed using Cronbach's alpha.

Results:

the committee of experts made the necessary adjustments so that the scale was adapted to the Brazilian context. The factor analysis suggested a reduction from seven to five factors and the maintenance of 38 items similar to those of the original scale. The reliability, investigated through Cronbach's alpha, was .829, showing high internal consistency.

Conclusion:

it was concluded that the Brazilian version of the Adherence Determinants Questionnaire scale is a valid and reliable instrument that is able to measure the elements of adherence to the treatment for breast and cervical cancer.

[Risk factors for sexually transmitted diseases among sex workers in the interior of Piaui, Brazil]

OBJECTIVE

To identify the risk factors for STD among female sex workers and the characteristics of this population, and to verify the association between condom use by their male partners and clients.

METHOD

Cross-sectional and correlational study conducted with 73 sex workers registered at the Sex Workers´ Association of the municipality of Picos -PI, Brazil. Data were collected in September and October 2010 using a questionnaire to obtain sociodemographic information and the participants´ background in the sex industry. Ethical aspects were observed.

RESULTS

There was no significant association between most of the sociodemographic variables and background in the sex industry and condom use by male partners or clients. However, there was a significant association with years in the sex industry (p = 0.029). Sex workers who had been in the industry for the longest used condoms for protection against sexually transmitted diseases.

CONCLUSION

It is essential to create health promotion strategies that observe the real-life experiences of sex workers.

Avaliação das competências de enfermeiras para a promoção em saúde durante atendimentos pediátricos em unidade de emergência

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar as competências de enfermeiras na promoção da saúde durante atendimentos pediátricos em unidade de emergência, utilizando a classificação de risco. Métodos Estudo transversal realizado com enfermeiras que atuam no acolhimento com classificação de risco das crianças atendidas na emergência. Foram relacionados os procedimentos desenvolvidos pelas enfermeiras segundo as diretrizes do acolhimento com classificação de risco com o modelo de competências para a promoção da saúde de Galway. Na análise das competências, as enfermeiras foram acompanhados por dois observadores. Para a confiabilidade interobservadores foi utilizado o índice de Kappa, que corresponde a uma medida de concordância que varia de 0 a 1, sendo o valor 0 nenhuma concordância e o 1 representa total concordância. Resultados As competências identificadas na Enfermeira 1 obteve concordância perfeita (K=1,0), na Enfermeira 2 concordância moderada (K=0,5) e na Enfermeira 3 concordância muito baixa (K=0,2). Das competências de Galway, obtiveram maior concordância avaliação/diagnóstico e parceria. Conclusão As competências para promoção da saúde desenvolvidas pelas enfermeiras participantes do estudo foram: avaliação/diagnóstico, parceria, planejamento e avaliação das ações.

Translation and cultural adaptation of the Mother-Generated Index into Brazilian Portuguese: A postnatal quality of life study

OBJECTIVE

quality of life issues are central to maternal health and well-being. Within the context of a study examining postnatal quality of life, we set out to translate into Brazilian Portuguese the Mother-Generated Index and ensure its cross-cultural adaption for use in a Brazilian context.

DESIGN

the Mother-Generated Index, a subjective quality of life tool, underwent a validated process of translation and cultural adaptation: synthesis of two independently translated versions, back-translation and review by an expert committee was followed by testing of the preliminary tool with 30 mothers.

SETTINGS

community-based study in city in north-eastern Brazil.

PARTICIPANTS

30 postpartum mothers, interviewed approximately 30 days after birth.

FINDINGS

while the mothers understood the concept of identifying and scoring quality of life aspects, many did not grasp the concept behind the use of 'spending points' to produce a relative ranking of these aspects. We resolved this by giving the mothers 'spending beans' instead; beans are a regional food staple. This use of a physical 'currency' solved the problem.

DISCUSSION

this modified approach was ratified by the committee of experts and used with success on a further sample of 91 mothers. The whole process aimed to ensure semantic equivalence of the translated tool, and following this process we concluded that face validity of the Brazilian Portuguese Mother-Generated Index was good. While considerable resources are required to ensure a robust process of translation and adaptation, this is necessary if valid and reliable tools are to be produced.

IMPLICATIONS

We conclude that the Mother-Generated Index is a valid tool to measure quality of life among Brazilian postpartum mothers, as it allows a simple and understandable way of assessing the various dimensions involved in their quality of life. Moreover, the Mother-Generated Index can provide healthcare professionals the opportunity to become aware of all significant aspects of a woman's life after childbirth.

[Sexual behaviors and practices of men who have sex with men]

The objective was to identify behaviors and sexual practices of men who have sexual relations with other men in the context of vulnerability to HIV/AIDS. This was a cross-sectional, exploratory and descriptive study. It was carried out in a gay sociability place in Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil, between November 2010 and March 2011, through interviews with 189 men who have sex with men. The ethical aspects were respected. We found a sample consisting mostly by young, single, and highly educated men. The sexual history demonstrated the early onset of sexual activity, with a high prevalence of sexual intercourse with a partner of the opposite sex. There was also a high prevalence of HIV testing. Sexual practices revealed high prevalence of performing oral and anal sex, as well as high levels of protection in anal sex, despite the low protection in oral sex. A greater incorporation of prevention practices was found compared to the national scene in the beginning of the disease outbreak.