Challenges and Strategies of Nurses in HIV Prevention: PEP and PrEP as Care Tools for the LGBTQIAPN+ Community

Abstract

Nurses play a fundamental role in primary health care, actively participating in health promotion and in the prevention of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). They build bonds with the community, foster trusting relationships, and play an essential role in disseminating information. In addition, nurses provide continuous follow-up, clarifying frequent doubts of users of Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) and Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) from the beginning to the end of treatment. OBJECTIVE: To identify, through literature review, the challenges faced by nurses in primary care in promoting health among the LGBTQIAPN+ community and in HIV prevention. METHODOLOGY: This is an integrative literature review conducted between February and April 2025, using Health Sciences Descriptors (DeCS) and Boolean operators. Articles published in Portuguese within the last five years that addressed HIV/AIDS prevention in primary care were included. RESULTS: The findings indicated that, despite significant progress, there are still gaps in professional training and communication with vulnerable populations, reinforcing the importance of public policies and continuous educational initiatives. CONCLUSION: It is recognized that nurses in primary health care play an essential role in health promotion, patient support, and information dissemination, being responsible for guiding, monitoring, and strengthening  bonds with PEP/PrEP users.