Development of a Chatbot for Immunization Guidance in the Context of the National Immunization Program
Name: GABRIELA MONTEBELLER
Publication date: 06/02/2026
Examining board:
Name |
Role |
|---|---|
| ANA CATARINA DE MELO ARAUJO | Examinador Externo |
| CANDIDA CANICALI PRIMO | Examinador Interno |
| ELIANE DE FATIMA ALMEIDA LIMA | Coorientador |
| ETHEL LEONOR NOIA MACIEL | Examinador Interno |
| THIAGO NASCIMENTO DO PRADO | Presidente |
Summary: The National Immunization Program (PNI) has significantly contributed to improving the quality of life of the Brazilian population by preventing vaccine- preventable diseases. However, in recent years, a decline in vaccination coverage has been observed both nationally and in the state of Espírito Santo. In this context, nursing professionals play an essential role in promoting immunization and disseminating up- to-date information. Thus, the use of digital technologies emerges as an innovative alternative to support professional practice and improve access to technical information. Objective: Develop and evaluate the usability of an informational chatbot aimed at guiding nursing professionals on the National Immunization Calendar. Methods: This applied technological development study was conducted in three stages: documentary review, development of content and conversational flows, and usability evaluation. The chatbot was developed on the InBot platform using Natural Language Processing (NLP) techniques. The evaluation was carried out with 29 nurses working in Primary Health Care and the Municipal Immunization Program of Vitória, Espírito Santo, using the System Usability Scale (SUS). Results: The developed technology consisted of 23 logically organized screens, ensuring effective human computer interaction, and was named the Clara chatbot. It was structured into modules by age group (children, adolescents, adults, pregnant women, and older adults), containing information on doses, intervals, vaccination schedules, and specific indications. The tool features an intuitive interface and accessible language, allowing fast and accurate consultation of the National Immunization Schedule. The mean SUS score was 92.3 points, classified as “excellent,” indicating high usability, clarity, and ease of use. The evaluators reported satisfaction with the interaction and recognized the technology’s potential to support immunization practices. Product: The Clara chatbot.Conclusion: The chatbot demonstrated excellent usability and strong potential to support professional practice in immunization, positioning itself as an innovative, accessible, and educational tool. Its use may contribute to strengthening continuing education, improving the quality of health actions, and expanding vaccination coverage within the scope of the PNI. The results also indicate the feasibility of its future incorporation by the Municipality of Vitória as a technology to support the standardization of technical guidance and the improvement of immunization work processes.
