Characteristics of papers on professional Nursing education in Brazil

Abstract

On reviewing the Brazilian literature between 1988-1998 about the professional education of auxiliares de enfermagem and técnicos de enfermagem, professionals that develop activities similar to those carried out by nursing aides and practical nurses, it was observed that not much is available. Considering that the workforce related to those two groups is made up of professionals whose educational level is that of high school, and that nurses are responsible for their education, we decided to review and analyze the literature related to the education of those professionals in Brazil. Findings show that papers are published mainly in the southeastern part of the country. Most authors are professionals working in educational institutions. The papers addressed issues related to personal qualification, its implications on educational, legal, and political aspects, and its impact on the teaching-learning process.