Ozone therapy in wound treatment:

Knowledge of nurses in the Unified Health System

Abstract

This research addresses the knowledge of nurses in theUnified Health System (SUS) regarding the use ofozonotherapy in wound treatment. Ozonotherapy is anintegrative practice that employs medicinal ozone to promote health benefits. In Brazil, it was incorporated intothe SUS in 2018 as a complementary approach to patientcare. Studies show its effectiveness in the treatment ofulcers, burns, and chronic wounds, highlighting theessential role of nurses in its application, who must betrained for a qualified and humane approach, ensuringsafety and effectiveness in this care. Objective: to investigate the knowledge and actions related to the use ofozone therapy in wound treatment by SUS nurses, according to Ordinance No. 702/2018, which expandedthe practices of the National Policy on Integrative andComplementary Practices (PNPIC) of 2006, andResolution No. 739/2024 of the Federal Nursing Council(COFEN). Methodology: field research, qualitative, exploratory. Results and discussion: regarding thecharacterization of the participants, it emerged that almostall were female, with up to ten years of graduation, andnone had completed an Extension or Specialization Coursein Ozone Therapy. Bardin's Content Analysis indicatedthat this lack of training influenced their knowledge of theuse of Ozone Therapy in wound treatment, according to the legislation. It is observed, however, that, despite thelack of courses, the professionals recognize the importanceof PNPIC in the SUS. Conclusion: It was found that thereis partial knowledge of the actions related to the use ofozone therapy in wound treatment and of the legislationamong the nurses at the Basic Health Unit, the site of thisresearch, indicating a lack of training, which limits thepopulation's access to this treatment. This gap results in prolonged treatments, a higher risk of infections, and harmto patients' quality of life. Therefore, it is essential to expand knowledge and professional training, making itnecessary to implement Continuing Education andPermanent Education actions related to this treatment for the nurses at the researched Unit and others within theSUS.