Enfermería en la Atención Primaria de Salud en América Latina: revisión sistemática

Joselin Dayana Lojan Lojan

doi:10.53732/rccsalud/e8948

Authors

Joselin Dayana Lojan Lojan Universidad Estatal de Milagro; Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud. Guayas, Ecuador https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6428-5293

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.53732/rccsalud/e8948

Keywords:

nursing, primary health care, advanced practice nursing, Latin America, professional role

Abstract

Introduction. Primary Health Care (PHC) is the cornerstone of health systems in Latin America; however, it faces challenges related to access, quality, and the availability of human resources. In this context, nursing, including Advanced Practice Nursing (APN), has assumed a strategic role in strengthening primary care. Objective. To analyze nursing's participation in the development of PHC in Latin America and describe APN's support in expanding services and improving care. Materials and methods. A systematic review was conducted using the PRISMA approach. The search was performed in PubMed, Scopus, LILACS, SciELO, Google Scholar, considering studies published between 2015 and 2025, available in full text, and focused on the role of nursing in PHC in Latin American countries. After removing duplicates and applying selection criteria, 20 articles were included. Results. Evidence shows that nurses actively participate in ongoing support, health education, chronic disease management, and community work. The nursing process has contributed to expanding coverage, improving problem-solving capacity, and strengthening continuity of care, especially in resource-limited settings. Gaps persist in regulation, training, and recognition of the nursing role. Conclusion. Nursing is fundamental to the functioning and strengthening of primary health care in Latin America. Consolidating the nursing process requires clear regulatory frameworks, specialized training, and public policy support.

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