Knowledge of primary health care professionals regarding the introduction of food in infant’s diets

Abstract

Introduction: Childhood is a period of intense growth and development, as well as of vulnerability, requiring adequate monitoring. From the 6th month of life onwards, the moment of introduction of food (IA) begins, which, when performed correctly, allows an adequate supply of energy and nutrients. In this context, Primary Health Care (PHC) professionals responsible for Growth and Development (CeD) evaluations must be prepared to provide guidance on nutrition. Objective: Assessing the knowledge about IA of PHC professionals responsible for CeD evaluations. Methodology: Cross-sectional and quantitative study, developed with PHC professionals responsible for CeD consultations in the city of Currais Novos, RN. These professionals have answered an online semi-structured questionnaire on sociodemographic and professional profiles, knowledge and security, self-reported, concerning IA and doubts about it. Data were analyzed using absolute and relative frequencies. Results: No professional took a course in the field of IA, and 60.9% did not have access to the Food Guide. Most feel safe to pass on information about IA, but have doubts and seek to study the subject. As for the classification of their knowledge, 52.2% (n=12) classified themselves as “Good”; the classification “Very good”, in turn, was predominantly composed of nurses (87.2%). Fifteen questions were listed, including: quantity (n=12) and types of food to be offered (n=6), supply onset (n=3), use of teas (n=2) and amount of water to offer (n=2). Conclusion: Although most professionals have "Good" or "Very good" knowledge about IA, there is still a need to further study the theme due to both its need and relevance.