Work context assessment in intensive therapy units from the perspective of work psychodynamics

Abstract

In view of the reorganization of working processes and changes in the profile of occupational illness, this article discusses on the occupational risks of falling ill among nurses working in Intensive Care Units (ICU). This exploratory, cross-sectional, descriptive study was developed with a convenience sample of 44 subjects, workers at a private hospital. The Work Context Assessment Scale was used, which is composed of three factors. The results regarding the factor work organization indicated severe risks to the workers' health. Regarding the factor social-professional relationships the items showed moderate health risks. The assessment of the facto working conditions showed low risks to occupational health. The analysis was based on work psychodynamics, and on the criticism to the prevalence of the Taylor management model in nursing work. The study allowed for a better understanding of the subjectivity implied in nursing work and instigates to increase the focus of discussions on safety and occupational health to the context of the work organization.