LAUSR

OBJECTIVE Learn about the perception of health professionals who perform rapid tests in Health Centers (HCs). METHOD This is a descriptive and qualitative study conducted in nine HCs in Recife. Data were collected through individual interviews and evaluated using Bardin's content analysis, in its thematic category. RESULTS Challenges were observed in rapid tests related to the supply of products, physical structure, training for pre- and post-test counseling, and the need for improvements in permanent education actions. FINAL CONSIDERATIONS These issues can be resolved with management improvements, systematization of permanent education activities, and definition of care flows that enable early diagnosis. Besides the diagnosis, care lines should be created for people living with HIV and AIDS who use the HCs for early health care process.