Brazil expands nursing scope and launches leadership training program

The Brazilian nursing profession gained a major milestone with the approval of Legislative Decree No. 193/2021, which extends nurses’ competencies to work in clinics and consultórios. The change, championed by Priscila Ferraz of the Pernambuco Nursing Association, is described as opening “new opportunities for thousands of professionals” and strengthening the autonomous role of nurses in the public health system.

Separately, the Federal Nursing Council (Cofen) and the Regional Nursing Council of Goiás (Coren‑GO) held a state‑wide leadership qualification course on July 10, 2026 in Goiânia as part of the Nursing Now Brasil initiative. The program seeks to address a global shortage of nursing leaders, with coordinators emphasizing the need for “multipliers of leadership” to build a stronger health service. Participants such as Midiã Lopes and Emily Pontes reported gains in delegation, teamwork and primary‑care management skills.

Both actions aim to enhance the capacity, autonomy and professional development of Brazil’s nursing workforce.