[The HIV/AIDS vulnerability framework applied to families: a reflection]. / O referencial de vulnerabilidade ao HIV/AIDS aplicado às famílias: um exercício reflexivo.

The objective of this study is to reflect upon the vulnerabilities experienced by the families dealing with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV/Aids), and is based on the pertinent literature. To do this, we attempted to propose consideration related to the plurality of families in contemporaneity, and present the understandings and development regarding the vulnerability framework to the Aids epidemics. Finally, the study presents a description of the reflections made about the vulnerabilities to HIV and/or falling ill with Aids to which the families are exposed to in their personal, social and pragmatic levels. In conclusion, it is emphasized that knowing these specific vulnerabilities experienced by the families is essential in order to guide and develop the health care actions.

[Considering human peculiarities in attention to health care through dialogue and assistance]. / Atentando para as singularidades humanas na atenção a saúde por meio do diálogo e acolhimento.

The aim of this qualitative exploratory research is to understand how health workers relate to the main object of their work--the user--both subject and author of his/her life history. Eleven nursing practitioners from a Basic Health Unit participated in a semi-structured instrument, in March and April, 2008. The speeches revealed two converging themes: (1) Consideration of human peculiarities in attention to health care; and (2) dialogue and assistance as interactive possibilities. We found that the attention to health care is broadening the debates over valuing human peculiarities through dialogue and assistance as interactive possibilities.