An exploratory and descriptive study, conducted with 38 nursing assistants and 17 nursing technicians who worked in the Family Health Strategy (ESF), in the municipalities of Acaraú, Chaval, Coreaú, Granja, Marco and Santana do Acaraú, in the state of Ceará, from March to April of 2005. The objective was to trace the profile and qualification needs of these professionals. The profile showed that most were married women, between 31 and 40 years of age, having completed high school, receiving a minimum income, and working in the rural area. The main qualification needs they pointed out include biosafety, home care, methods and techniques of treating wounds and probes, sterilization, educational activities and receiving the patient. Most of the needs mentioned are techniques, suggesting deficiencies in professional training. The authors emphasize the importance of a permanent policy of education, to improve the qualification of this professional segment and its work in the ESF.
nursing; professional qualification; nursing assistants; public policies
