Análise do monitoramento externo da qualidade dos exames de citologia cérvico-vaginais no Rio Grande do Norte

Abstract

Cervical cancer represents a major concern for health professionals and administrators, with infection by the human papillomavirus (HPV) being one of the main causes of its development. It is the fourth most common type of cancer among women worldwide. However, currently, this type of cancer is considered potentially eradicable through vaccination against the most prevalent oncogenic HPV types and through the screening and treatment of precursor lesions. This cross-sectional study, employing both quantitative and qualitative approaches, aims to analyze the adequacy of the External Quality Monitoring (EQM) flow for cervical cytology exams conducted in the Type I Laboratory Network participating in the cervical cancer screening process in Rio Grande do Norte. The research was carried out at the Laboratory of Pathological Anatomy and Cytopathology (LAPAT-RN), part of the service network of the State Health Department of Rio Grande do Norte. Data from the results issued by the 26 Type I Laboratories were obtained from the Health Information Systems of the Ministry of Health and the National Registry of Health Establishments, and organized into Excel spreadsheets for analysis. Additionally, the EQM results issued by LAPAT-RN were collected from the TargetWeb management system. As a result, the analysis of the indicators was fundamental for the development of the EQM analyzer flowchart for cervical cytology exams within LAPAT-RN. Factors such as timeliness, technical capacity, and continuing education processes were identified as essential for organizing and improving outcomes. This systematization culminated in the production of the LAPAT-RN Practical Guide, a Technical-Technological Product in the form of educational material, which will benefit the institution and health professionals involved in women's health care. This guide will directly impact the quality of care provided, assist professionals in management, monitoring, and evaluation areas, and contribute to education and technical-scientific production. Moreover, it will aid in improving work processes aimed at the early prevention of cervical cancer.