This study, an extract from a dissertation in progress, aims to analyze a social competence of the nurses when delivering pre-natal assistance. Forty-two nurses, engaged in the Politics National Women's Health Care, carried out at the Municipal Health Care Centers in Belem, Pará, have taken part in the project. This is a qualitative research based on Claus Moller's quality standards (1992) which describes the human aspect of personal quality. Data has been collected through questionnaires completed under the researcher's supervision. The ethical issues raised were in compliance with the National Health Board Resolution number 196/96. As a result of the data analysis, the category of social competence emerged. According to the subjects interviewed , it comprises the nurses' professional commitment to the pregnant women they assist; their need to have a more critical attitude towards reality and their willingness to overcome the difficulties inherent in the public health services. This reseach shows that not only good professional performance, but also institutional support are essential to ensure personal development.
Nurses; Pre-Natal Care; Quality Management