Papanicolau test: knowledge of users of a Primary Careunit

Abstract

Objective: to identify the knowledge of women attending to a Primary Care Unit, located in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, on the preventive cervical screening (Papanicolau). Method: this is a descriptive exploratory study with a qualitative approach, conducted with 122 women aged 25 to 64 years. We used a questionnaire with open and closed questions. Data collection was conducted from April to December 2011. Data analysis was performed through thematic analysis, yielding two categories. Results: the women interviewed showed knowledge of examination, motivation to take this test and get their results spontaneously. Some difficulties were highlighted as the service opening hours and scheduling system. Conclusion: health professionals should clarify about pap smears, and the nursing role as motivator through health education for the exam