Architectural barriers and nursing care: nurses’ perceptions of cervical cytology screening for women who use wheelchairs

Abstract

Women with physical disabilities face numerous difficulties in accessing health services. Architectural and attitudinal barriers, inadequate accessibility, insufficient training of nursing professionals and social prejudice hinder cervical cytology screening. Women who use wheelchairs also experience physical, sensory and emotional changes that directly affect their self-esteem and quality of life. This study investigates, through the scientific literature, nurses’ perceptions of how the infrastructure and furniture of health facilities affect gynecological examinations for women who use wheelchairs, as well as the psychological and behavioral consequences of this reality. This bibliographic review draws on national scientific articles concerning architectural barriers and difficulties in accessing health services. The findings indicate that inadequate reception and insufficiently trained professionals contribute to the exclusion of these women from health services. Public policies, continuing education for health teams and structural improvements are required to ensure humane, accessible and comprehensive care.