Stress at work of the nursing team in an intensive care unit

Abstract

Objectives: To identify possible stressor agents involved in working in an Intensive Care Unit (ICU), in the nursing’s team perspective and to discuss the reactions found out by the nursing team to minimize these stressor agents. Methods: A descriptive study with a qualitative approach in a general hospital in the city of Rio de Janeiro (Br); it were performed 22 semi-structured interviews with nurses in the intensive care unit. Results: It is emphasized the reactions to stressors found out by the nursing team: the effective communication at work provides a harmonious environment; the emotional and material resources minimize stress at work; work as a resource to avoid stress. Conclusion: We understand that it is important to alert the nursing team about the importance of psychological balance to prevent worsening of physical manifestations unchained by stressing agents at workplace. Descriptors: Nursing, Stress, Work, Occupational health.