Integrative nursing in the Brazilian northeast: introduction, potential, and challenges

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Integrative and Complementary Health Practices
• Public Health

Background:

• Integrative and Complementary Health Practices (ICHP) are increasingly recognized for their role in holistic patient care.
• Nurses are key providers in integrating diverse health modalities.
• Understanding the specific context of ICHP adoption in Northeast Brazil is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the introduction, potential, and challenges faced by nurses in providing ICHP in Northeast Brazil.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative study was conducted between June and December 2022.
• 15 nurses from Northeast Brazil qualified in ICHP participated.
• Data were collected through individual online interviews and analyzed using content analysis.

Main Results:

• Fifteen nurses reported using 23 different ICHP, with auriculotherapy being predominant.
• ICHP were primarily introduced in primary care and private nursing settings, offering benefits to both patients and professionals.
• Nurses' technical qualifications and interest in continuing education highlight the potential for ICHP expansion.
• Key challenges included a hospital-centric professional view, limited ICHP diffusion in nursing education, difficulties in procedure pricing, and developing clinical reasoning across different medical rationalities.

Conclusions:

• Northeastern nurses are actively providing ICHP to complement conventional care.
• Despite existing challenges, the integration of ICHP demonstrates a commitment to enhancing patient well-being.
• Further support in education and professional development is needed to overcome barriers and expand ICHP utilization.