Abstract
Objective: To analyze the challenges and potential involved in preventive care actions for diarrheal diseases carried out by the nursing staff with the indigenous population. Methods: Descriptive study with a qualitative approach. Eleven non-indigenous nursing professionals participated in the investigation. The professionals were investigated through a questionnaire regarding the challenges and potential involved in acting in indigenous areas. Data analysis was performed according to the content theorized by Laurence Bardin. The study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee. Results: Local structures related to drinking water and personal hygiene stand out as the main challenges faced in combating diarrhea. From the point of view of potential, health education proved to be a powerful strategy to take care of the indigenous population susceptible to the development of diarrhea. Conclusion: Diarrheal conditions were associated with precarious sanitary conditions where the water distribution system that serves indigenous communities stands out as a challenge to take care of. On the other hand, the commitment of the nursing team to health education was analyzed as a potential in the prevention and treatment of diarrheal diseases among the indigenous population.