ABSTRACT
Objective:
to analyze the intervening factors in adherence to the directly observed treatment in tuberculosis, in the perception of patients and nurses of basic health units.
Method:
a descriptive and qualitative research study with the participation of 13 nurses and 52 patients of 12 Basic Health Units of Belém-Pará, Brazil. For data production, individual interviews were conducted, complemented by non-participant observation. The data were submitted to thematic content analysis.
Results:
two categories emerged from the analysis: Perceptions of patients and nurses on the directly observed treatment, and Operationalization of the directly observed treatment: positive and limiting factors.
Conclusion:
even with the weaknesses pointed out, the units have potential to develop the strategy. The nurses are aware of their importance, but need greater institutional support, and the patients, when well informed, show good adherence. This knowledge can provide greater safety for the nurses in the conduction of patient follow-up.
DESCRIPTORS:
Tuberculosis; Directly Observed Therapy; Adherence to Medication; Patient Cooperation; Nursing