Use of the child health record by families: perceptions of professionals

Abstract

Qualitative and exploratory study performed in Cuiabá with 20 health professionals with the objective of analyzing the use of child health records by families, from the viewpoint of professionals working in primary health care. Data were collected by semi-structured interviews with thematic content analysis. The results showed that professionals believed that it is the duty of families to take care of child health records and to take them every time they seek health services for their children. However, despite the guidance provided, families seldom use this instrument. Participants also recognized that families have the right to demand the proper completion of data in the records, since this shows that families are interested in their children's health and also helps in the work of professionals. Child health records are an instrument for monitoring and promoting child health; therefore, their use should be known and valued by professionals and by families.