Identification of factors of risks in occupational therapists in the attendance of carriers of physical dysfunctions

Abstract

Data obtained from the Ministry of Health (Brazil, 2001) reveal growing rates of occupational illnesses among all career segments. The professional involved with the care of the human being within the health sector have also been presenting high rates of health problems resulted from the job performance. This research attempted to investigate the working conditions of the Occupational Therapists that deal with physically disabled people in order to identify some of the risk factors of the job, possible impacts in their health, as well as suggest prevention measures and improvement of working situations. These conditions will than reflect on the treatment of the patients. The sample was composed by 10 Occupational Therapists from the city of Bauru and region. The data was collected based on a structured interview questionnaire, which was entirely transcripted after the data gathering. The answers were than categorized and organized into figures and tables. It was possible to conclude that the working conditions presented to the Occupational Therapists can lead to a development process of illness. The activities are mainly realized on either standing or seating positions, improper column postures during the work performance with the patients, in addition to the employment of strength. There were also reports of low rates of physical conditioning activities and breaks taken during the job, as well as complaints related to the work environment, and lack of material and equipment.