Nursing work in assisted human reproduction: between technology and humanization

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objectives: To analyze the social representations of nurses who work with assisted human reproduction about the operation with reproductive biotechnologies. Methods: Qualitative approach, supported by the Theory of Social Representations, with sixteen participants. Individual, semi-structured interviews, analyzed through the Alceste software. Results: Pragmatic elements related to nurses’ performance from a professional, institutional, and public policy perspective in reproductive biotechnologies emerged, demonstrating the practical dimension of these representations. The characteristics of the professional to act in this area were addressed, showing the lack of information and search for scientificity; precarious perception of the organizational structure of health services; and attributions of nursing care arising from the health care practice in assisted human reproduction. Final considerations: Social representation is anchored in the link between technology/medicalization and humanization/reception regarding reproductive biotechnologies. Working in assisted human reproduction involves a new and challenging nursing care, requiring specific and ethical knowledge.