Work environment of nurses in primary health care in Manaus: an analytical cross-sectional study

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the dimensions of the work environment of primary health care nurses (PHC) and its relationship with these professionals’ sociodemographic characteristics. Method: This was a cross-sectional, analytical study conducted between April and October 2024 with 243 PHC nurses in Manaus. A questionnaire and the Workplace Environment Assessment Scale were used. Descriptive and inferential analysis was performed. Results: The overall assessment of the work environment was average, with a score of 98.1. The average score for the Motivation for Work dimension was 47.2. The Workplace Safety dimension had the lowest average (14.6), classified as “attention”, and Strategic Management for Healthy Work, with an average of 36.3, was classified as having warning points. A negative correlation was found between income and motivation, length of time working in PHC and management, age/length of work and job security. Temporary nurses evaluated strategic management more positively. Conclusion: Weaknesses were identified in security and strategic management, highlighting the need for improvements in infrastructure, participatory management, and protection of professionals’ health to promote a safer and healthier work environment.