Enfermería Comunitaria y su Contribución a la Salud Pública en Ecuador
Geovanna Yamiley Mina-Villalta, Liliana Asunción Sumarriva-Bustinza
Abstract
Community nurses in Ecuador play a crucial role in health promotion and disease prevention, especially in rural and marginalized urban communities. This study highlights the importance of community nurses in health education, vaccination campaigns and chronic disease management. Educational interventions have proven to be effective in improving healthy habits and reducing gastrointestinal diseases and child malnutrition. Vaccination campaigns have increased coverage in underserved areas, while follow-up programs for chronic diseases have improved adherence to treatment and patients' quality of life. However, community nursing faces significant challenges, such as lack of adequate infrastructure, insufficient resources, and gaps in ongoing training. To maximize its impact, the implementation of specific public policies, the adoption of innovative technologies, and the promotion of intersectoral and community collaboration are recommended. Addressing these challenges and taking advantage of the opportunities identified can strengthen community nursing and improve public health in Ecuador.