Práticas e crenças populares no cuidado infantil: percepções e condutas de enfermeiras da Atenção Primária

Objective: to understand the role of Primary Health Care nurses in relation to popular practices and beliefs in children’s health care. Methods: qualitative study conducted with nine nurses in four Family Health Strategy units. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews guided by a script of open- and closed-ended questions. Content analysis was used. Results: organized into two thematic categories: Nurses’ perceptions of popular practices and beliefs related to children’s health, and Nurses’ conduct in addressing cultural practices in children’s health: strategies for action. Professionals recognize the use of popular practices and understand their historical and cultural construction. They use strategies such as adapted communication, bonding, and health education to act. Conclusion: nurses manage popular beliefs in childcare through dialogue and bonding, highlighting childcare as a space for negotiating knowledge. This expands the role of nursing in culturally sensitive care in Primary Health Care. Contributions to practice: the inclusion of this theme during undergraduate studies and in continuing education spaces can contribute to the training of professionals and the protagonism of subjects in therapeutic processes.