[Maternal mortality prevention: a challenge for nurses]

In this article theprincipal aspects about maternal mortality are analyzed, with the objective the promotion of preventive actions for the avoidable maternal death. It is verified that entities as ADVOCACY have significant participation in the projects seeking for reduction of maternal mortality rates and the adjustment of procedures for protecting women's rights. It is also observed that the State Health Secretary, through the Resolutions 1.052/95 and 1.642/2001 express the state policies for reducing the problem. It is concluded that there are indications of political will about the proposals and projects for reducing the avoidable maternal mortality rates. However, there are no requests on its effectiveness. Health professionals as nurses need to gather efforts, and also an attitude of understanding and sensitiveness in their preventive actions.