RISK FACTORS TO THE SAFETY OF NURSES WORKING IN THE INTENSIVE CARE UNIT OF A GENERAL HOSPITAL

Abstract

Introduction: Intensive care units (ICUs) are facilities where the nursing staff provides specialized care to critically-ill patients. Objective: To identify the risk factors that can cause accidents in ICUs to which nurses are exposed. Material and Methods: This study used an inductive approach, with comparative statistical procedure, and extensive direct observation by means of a questionnaire. The sample consisted of 15 nurses who had been working for two years or more in a reference hospital located in Joao Pessoa, PB. Based on the topics covered in the questionnaire, we aimed to characterize and evaluate the requirements of the working environment and the risks to which nurses are exposed. Results: A total of 60% of subjects reported that sometimes the pace of work is excessive; 73.3% said that working conditions are precarious; 46.6% reported that there is often a lot of noise in the workplace; 53.4% indicated that they are strongly required to have enough control of emotions. In addition, 86.7% of participants reported having felt body aches three or more times; and 46.6% reported three or more episodes of stress caused by living with the pain, suffering and death. Conclusion: We identified biological hazards, such as accidents with needlestick and general fluids of patients; physical risks, such as exposure to radiation and noise; chemical hazards, one of them due to exposure to substances such as antiseptics; ergonomic issues, associated with repeated efforts and others, as well as occupational hazards, referring mainly to the excessive pace of work. DESCRIPTORS Occupational risks. Intensive Care Unit. Nursing staff. Worker's health. Occupational Health Nursing.