We aimed to analyze the nursing work process directed at care in the Nutrition, Growth and Development Surveillance and Control Program (VNCD) for children under five years at a social security institution in Mexico. The study adopted a qualitative approach and was based on the work category, on conceptions of the work process in health and on institutional analysis. We carried out direct systematic observations and interviews with a group of nurses and their assistants and with mothers who

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... nded nursing appointments with their children. The care process was identified as procedure-centered and based on care protocols, with rapid appointments and little room for interaction between nurses and mothers. However, on some occasions, nurses were capable of producing live work as a result of their self-government, which allowed them to establish a mother/child-centered care nucleus.