Integrative and complementary practices: use by community health agents in self-care

• Main Authors: Cássio de Almeida Lima, Ana Maria Vitrícia de Souza Santos, Romerson Brito Messias, Fernanda Marques da Costa, Dulce Aparecida Barbosa, Carla Silvana de Oliveira e Silva, Lucinéia de Pinho, Maria Fernanda Santos Figueiredo Brito
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Associação Brasileira de Enfermagem
• Series: Revista Brasileira de Enfermagem
• Subjects: Terapias Complementares; Agentes Comunitários de Saúde; Estratégia Saúde da Família; Atenção Primária à Saúde; Enfermagem em Saúde Comunitária
• Online Access: http://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0034-71672018001202682&lng=en&tlng=en

ABSTRACT Objective: To verify the use of integrative and complementary practices (ICPs) by community health agents working in family health teams. Methods: Cross-sectional, quantitative research, conducted in the city of Montes Claros, Minas Gerais. An structured form was used for the characterization of participants and use of ICPs. Descriptive and bivariate analyses were conducted. Results: Use of ICPs was referenced by 94 (40.7%) agents. The use of medicinal plants was predominant (32.5%). There were associations between: ICPs in general and negative self-perception of health (p=0.032), homeopathy and higher education (p=0.015), massage and living with partner(p=0.024), chiropractic care and income equal to or greater than four minimum wages (p=0.031), relaxation/meditation and religion (p=0.028). Conclusion: The use of ICPs was verified in the healthcare of community agents. It is necessary to strengthen these practices for the promotion of health and prevention of diseases.