Assistência pré-natal na sífilis gestacional: diagnóstico e tratamento na atenção primária a saúde em Santa Catarina

Abstract

Syphilis, an infectious disease caused by Treponema pallidum, is considered a significant public health issue. During pregnancy, it is estimated that two million pregnant women are impacted, with alarming rates of stillbirth and severe complications in newborns due to vertical transmission. In Primary Health Care (PHC), doctors and nurses play essential roles in prenatal care, which includes the timely diagnosis and treatment of syphilis. This study aimed to analyse the care provided in prenatal follow-up within the PHC framework in the state of Santa Catarina regarding the diagnosis and treatment of gestational syphilis. This is a cross-sectional study, conducted in the state of Santa Catarina, with data collected from January to August 2019. The study population consisted of postpartum, women of any, age residing in Santa Catarina, who gave birth to live infants in hospitals in the state. The study involved 3,580 postpartum women, with a prevalence of gestational syphilis at 3.21%. Prenatal care was predominantly provided jointly by doctors and nurses, representing a higher percentage of syphilis diagnoses and treatments occurring within this joint follow-up. Syphilis testing for partners was also more frequently performed when both professionals were involved (32.64%), and partner treatment, when necessary, was more prevalent among those attended by nurses (85.71%). The results emphasise the importance of direct and quality follow-up in PHC, highlighting the nurse's role in diagnosis and treatment. Their contribution is essential to increase adherence to treatment and reduce adverse outcomes.