Teste do pezinho : adesão dos pais.

Abstract

The neonatal heel prick or Guthrie test (Teste do Pezinho in Portuguese) is a laboratory test to detect possible metabolic, genetic or infectious diseases that are asymptomatic in the neonatal period that if not treated early, can have irreversible consequences for the health of the child. The objective of this study was to identify the understanding of the parents, users of a Basic Health Unit of a municipality in the interior of the state of Rio Grande do Sul - Brazil about the performance of the Guthrie test. Qualitative research using the Collective Subject Discourse method recommended by Lefevré. The results shows that most parents adhere to the test for referrals from health professionals. The understanding about the purpose is tenuous, following the indications of the services. Their information and knowledge conditions lack educational investments. Health professionals, especially nurses, are fundamental in this process of communication and education, so they need to be prepared to develop actions and reflections with the team and users of health services. The Neonatal Screening, if performed in an effective way, brings benefits to children, families, professionals and society.