This study aimed to analyze the perceptions of nurses regarding their work in the Family Health Strategy. It consists of a qualitative descriptive study based on the socio-historical foundations and intersubjective aspects of the nursing work. Data were collected in 11 Family Health Units in Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brazil, by means of semi-structured interviews with 11 nurses, and submitted to thematic analysis. The nursing work is perceived as based on strategic and preventive actions, on the participation in the delivery of care, in contrast to the administrative participation, and on embracing interactions with patients. The nurses demonstrated compliance with the axes proposed for the work in the Family Health Strategy and a certain lack of knowledge and unchallenged acceptance of these, especially with respect to the promotion of health and the renewal of the local administrative practice. This study reveals the importance of reflecting regarding the nursing work and the perceptions of nursing professionals as for the construction of the Family Health Strategy model.
Family Health Program; Nursing; Work; Social values