Evaluation of an Instrument for Investigating the Clinical Management of Type II Leprosy Reaction s in Primary Care

Abstract

Introduction: The clinical management of type II leprosy reactions presents a challenge in Primary Health Care (PHC) due to the complexity of diagnosis and therapeutic approaches, especially regarding the safe use of thalidomide. Objective: Describe the experience of applying the pilot test of an instrument developed to assess the clinical management of type II leprosy reaction by primary health care physicians in Palmas, Tocantins. Method: The pilot test was conducted between April and May 2025 with eight female physicians working in PHC. The instrument included questions organized into four sections: diagnosis, treatment, care practices, and self-assessment. Data collection involved completing the questionnaire and providing suggestions for improvement. The analysis considered question clarity, language adequacy, thematic relevance, organization, response format, and overall user experience. All participants signed an informed consent form. The responses will not be included in the main study. Results: Participants found the instrument easy to understand and linguistically appropriate. Suggestions led to adjustments in statements related to Erythema Nodosum Leprosum and thalidomide use. The average completion time was 15 minutes. Conclusion: The pilot test demonstrated the feasibility, adequacy, and content validity of the instrument for PHC, in alignment with national guidelines.