OCCUPATIONAL RISKS: PERCEPTION OF NURSING PROFESSIONALS OF THE FAMILY´S HEALTH STRATEGY IN JOAO PESSOA, PB

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the understanding of nursing staff of the family health units regarding occupational risks to which they are exposed, and to identify their suggestions in order to minimize such exposure. Material and Methods: This is a descriptive study with qualitative approach. We conducted interviews with 12 nurses from four units in João Pessoa, PB. Data were processed through the content analysis. Results: There were physical, chemical, biological and ergonomic risks along with accidents in the units. According to subjects’ reports, the risks occur due to the contact between professional and user, difficult for working in group, work routine, lack of protective equipment and resistant conduct of the workers themselves. Professionals pointed out to the need for education in health, improvement of working conditions, expansion of the number of professionals and use of personal protective equipment as a strategy to minimize exposure to occupational hazards. Conclusion: It was evident that nursing professionals have knowledge about risks to which they are exposed and suggest changes that can reduce these risks; such knowledge should be valued in the adoption of measures to promote care and maintenance of workers´ health. DESCRIPTORS: Occupational Risk. Nursing. Family Health.