Teaching Minor Surgical Procedures in Internship in Primary Care: A Necessary Approach

Abstract

Skin and subcutaneous lesions (nevus, fibromas, lipomas), lacerations, ingrown toenails, abscesses, musculoskeletal disorders such as arthritis, bursitis, trigger points, neuropathies and tendinitis are the main causes of problems in primary care that can be resolved with minor procedures. Performing these procedures is an important part of the general practitioner's competencies. The National Medical Course Curriculum Guidelines in Brazil show that medical students should be aware of these diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, based on current literature. In addition to the financial benefits, performing minor procedures in primary care also reduce patient anxiety, has greater convenience due to the proximity and familiarity with the health facility, requires less waiting for treatment, and allows for complete patient care. This paper is an experience report, with the objective of reporting the teaching-learning process during the internship of Family and Community Medicine of the Faculdades Pequeno Príncipe, regarding the performance of outpatient procedures in the primary health care. During the internship, it was possible to perform small procedures such as skin lesion excision, Intrauterine Device (IUD) insertion and trigger point needling. Thus, it is concluded that the teaching of small procedures is an essential part of the medical curriculum and helps to form a physician who addresses the most common complaints of patients in primary care.