Health education in a hospital unit: a professional space for the nurse

Abstract

The study had for objectives to evaluate the educating dimension of the nurse that acts in a hospital unit, and to analyze his/her training for the exercise of educating. It was accomplished at a public hospital, through the application of an interview answered by 18 nurses, in their schedule and work place. It was noticed that the nurses do not have a whole perception of the patients as agents of their recovery, and they were still confused about the expressions education for the health and continuous education. However, the interviewees demonstrated interest in practicing health education and they recognized its importance. This study discusses with the nursing professionals the commitment with the patients' education, their families and the community, as foreseen in the Code of Ethics and the Law for the Nursing Professionals.