Harm reduction in the context of psychoactive substances: nursing discourses in primary health care*

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the production of meanings on interventions considered as Harm Reduction in the discourses of nursing professionals working in Primary Health Care. Method: Qualitative study based on the theoretical-methodological framework of French Discourse Analysis. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 14 nursing professionals working in Primary Health Care, from February to October 2019. Results: Most Harm Reduction practices performed by nursing professionals aim to minimize risks and physical damage. Harm Reduction actions that require welcoming, non-judgment and qualified listening were observed. Some nursing professionals perform Harm Reduction actions, but do not recognize them as such. Conclusion: The production of meanings in the discourses of nursing professionals presented evidence of biomedical and/or disease discursive formations, health prevention, interpersonal relationships and health promotion.