The importance of the Occupational Health nurse in health promotion and prevention in the context of pesticide poisoning in rural workers

Abstract

Pesticides have a complex mechanism of action in the environment, regardless of the application method. The absence of a multi-professional team in the rural environment, integrated in the Unified Health System, shows the vulnerability of the rural worker, who is denied access to the evaluation of the work process, health prevention and promotion actions, and clinical care. The multi-professional team, including the occupational nurse, works in clinical, managerial and health promotion and prevention fronts, seeking to improve the health of rural workers exposed to pesticides. This study aimed to characterize the role of the occupational health nurse in promoting and preventing pesticide poisoning. The research used a qualitative approach, with an explanatory perspective. We conducted a literature review. The small sample size suggests occupational healthcare inefficiency and highlight critical aspects of governmental policies concerning rural workers’ protection against pesticide risks.