Challenges in providing care to women victims of violence in primary health care in Foz do Iguaçu-PR

Abstract

Introduction: Violence against women causes numerous health problems for women, resulting in various complaints requiring assistance from health services. Objective: This study aimed to analyze the challenges faced by the nursing staff of Basic Health Units (UBS) in Foz do Iguaçu in identifying signs of violence against women. Methodology: This is a cross-sectional, descriptive, and exploratory study to be conducted with ten nursing professionals working in primary care in the municipality. The present study will be developed in ten Basic Health Units (UBS) in the city of Foz do Iguaçu-PR, with two units from each health district (South, East, Northeast, North, and West) chosen by convenience. Data collection took place from September to October 2025. Results: The results indicated that, although nurses are familiar with the protocols for assisting women victims of violence, they face difficulties in applying them due to lack of training, bureaucracy, and structural limitations of the units. Fragility was also observed in the notification process and a lack of coordination between the services of the protection network, in addition to personal barriers faced by victims, such as fear and emotional or financial dependence. Conclusion: It is concluded that Primary Care faces significant challenges in identifying and caring for women victims of violence, ranging from physical and organizational limitations to professional and institutional difficulties. The findings reinforce the need for continuous training, improvement of care flows, and greater integration with the protection network to ensure adequate and effective support.