The preparation of the professionals of the health for preventive community interventions of infectious illnesses

Abstract

Introduction: Infectious diseases pose a threat to global public health. Their prevention requires effective community interventions, but healthcare professionals in training face limitations in planning and implementing them. Materials and methods: This qualitative, descriptive study was conducted at the Metropolitan University of Ecuador with 62 students and 6 faculty members from the Higher Technical Degree in Nursing program. Document analysis (Graduate Profile and MAIS-FCI Model), group interviews with students, and a Likert-type survey of faculty members were used. The proposed intervention was validated through consultation with 5 specialists. Results: 83.8% of students consider themselves prepared to carry out community interventions, while 16.1% do not. 100% of faculty members recognize that the graduate profile includes community-based prevention, but only 50% believe that graduates can plan interventions; only 16.6% believe they can lead them. A methodological guide was designed, structured in six stages (team preparation, participatory community diagnosis, planning, implementation, monitoring and adjustments, participatory evaluation, and closure), incorporating approaches to renewed primary care, popular health education, and interculturality. Specialists validated the guide as relevant, clear, and coherent, highlighting the need for teacher training and ethical considerations. Discussion: The findings align with previous studies that identify shortcomings in methodological preparation for community interventions and emphasize the need for guides that integrate educational, ethical, and methodological components. Conclusions: The methodological guide is a valuable tool for improving the training of future nursing professionals in community-based interventions for the prevention of infectious diseases.