ABSTRACT
The study aimed to analyze the discourse of Primary Health Care managers about the search for respiratory symptomatics as an epidemiological surveillance action of tuberculosis. A qualitative study was undertaken, guided by the theoretical and analytical framework of French Discourse Analysis. Data were produced in May 2012 through semi-structured interviews with 14 subjects. Two discursive blocks were produced: marks of power in the execution of the search for respiratory symptomatics; resistance strategies in the search for respiratory symptomatics. Discursive positions were grounded in the traditional management model, making it difficult to incorporate the search for respiratory symptomatics as a participatory action that integrates health staff, managers and the community. Insufficient human resources, workload and rigor in achieving goals favor postures of immobility among the professionals. It is concluded that the managerial work outlined in the health surveillance model encourages the mobilization of practices that contribute to qualify the search for respiratory symptomatics in Primary Health Care.
DESCRIPTORS:
Tuberculosis; Power; Health service administration; Qualitative research