Ten years of achievements of the nursing program at the Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana in vulnerable communities in Medellin and the Metropolitan Area

Abstract

Objective: To describe the activities carried out in the law and public health management practicum at the UPB School of Nursing in Medellín and some municipalities in the metropolitan area between 2000 and 2009.

Methods: Retrospective descriptive study involving the review of all the field journals contained in 150 books, which are a product of the recorded experiences of students who attended communities in Medellin and other municipalities within the metropolitan area between 2000 and 2009. Sociodemographic, health and achievement variables were included. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed through measurements of absolute and relative frequency.

Results: Six thousand twenty-nine people were attended in the cities of Medellin, Girardota, Copacabana, Caldas, Barbosa and Bello. Healthy lifestyle strategies were taught, comprehensive care was provided and introductory activities based on demand and management activities were done with Municipal Departments in order to gain access to services related to issues such as housing allowances, disability, elderly, violence and domestic abuse, agricultural support, education for unschooled children and youth, among others.

Conclusions: The job of professional nurses within the community is fundamental as well as the interaction through community participation and social support networks.