Sailing through the “river of life”: care production in urgent and emergency situations in an Amazon territory

Abstract

This study examined the production of care in healthcare services, adopting the participatory methodology “river of life”. Conducted in a riverside community in the interior of the Amazonas region, the research employed this reflective approach, involving the creation of a river using artistic materials such as colored pencils and cardboard. The technique fostered closeness with the stories, trajectories, and empowerment of community agents, users, and caregivers. This profound experience provided insights into the territorial challenges in accessing healthcare during urgent situations. Recording narratives during collective work sessions served as a data collection method, facilitating dialogue between the healthcare team and caregivers, enriching the understanding of regional dynamics involved in emergency care.