EXPERIENCE REPORT: LECTURE ON BREASTFEEDING FOR COMMUNITY HEALTH WORKERS

Introduction and Objective: Breastfeeding benefits both the mother’s and the baby’s health as it provides a balanced nutrition with everything the baby needs for a good growth and development. Furthermore, it represents the simplest and most advantageous way of reducing childhood mortality, strengthens the bonds between mother and child and protects the mother against some kinds of cancer1. Among the breastfeeding motivation techniques, the function of the Community Health Agent (CHA) stands out due to their proximity of the community2,3. For this reason, the objective set was the preparation of the CHAs, aiming the promotion of breastfeeding by these professionals. Methods: The discipline of Medicine Integrated to the Health in the Community encourages the early introduction of the medical students on the practical activities at UBSF Jardim Olimpico, in Aparecida de Goiania-GO. During the home visits to pregnant and nursing mothers, it was noticed that some beliefs and myths about breastfeeding exist. Therefore, it was acknowledged the importance to coach the CHAs to better orientate the families. An educational action using active methodologies of teaching and learning (dialogue-based exposition and role-playing with simulation dolls) was carried out discussing the subsequent themes: benefits of breastfeeding for the mother and the baby; beliefs and myths; and the ten steps for a correct breastfeeding. Results and conclusions: Fifteen CHAs were present, which participated actively, asking questions and improving their knowledge on the subject. The proposed objectives were reached and is expected that the acquired knowledge by the CHAs enhances the promotion of breastfeeding in the community.