Autonomy in acupuncture practice by nurses in southern Brazil (1997-2020)^a

ABSTRACT

Objective  to identify nurses’ autonomy in acupuncture practice in southern Brazil from 1997 to 2020.

Method  a qualitative, historical-social study, applying the thematic oral history technique under arguments of sociology of professions defended by Eliot Freidson. A semi-structured script was used for the interview of 18 nurses and one nurse acupuncturist selected in the three states of the federation by snowball technique. Data were collected and analyzed from April 2021 to December 2022.

Results  from the thematic content analysis emerged four categories, called: absence of autonomy; pursuit of autonomy; professional autonomy; and autonomy in light of Credentialism.

Final considerations and implications for practice  specialist nurses’ autonomy in professional practice is strengthened by specialized knowledge. Validity of the specialty contributes to the regulation of aspects involving nursing as a profession, in addition to boosting the possibility of occupying workspaces and promoting a comprehensive and collaborative approach to healthcare as well as professional training.

Keywords:
Acupuncture; Professional Autonomy; Nursing; Specialization; Health Profession