Overload in health workers in a psychiatric hospital complex in the northeast of Brazil

Abstract

Objective

this article aims to identify the aspects that cause work overload in a psychiatric hospital and to list strategies to reduce the overload reported by the 188 participants.

Method

data were collected from workers at a psychiatric hospital in the city of João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil. A scale for assessing the impact of work in mental health services (IMPACTO-BR) was used, processed in the IRAMUTEQ software and submitted to content analysis.

Results

the results were systematized in two thematic categories: Work overload aspects and Strategies to reduce overload. It was revealed that the biggest causes of overload are from the organizational context, while the smallest impact comes from patients.

Conclusion and implications for the practice

the suggested strategies ranged from acquiring decent work, with labor rights, to actions aimed at better patient care. It is suggested that political and institutional actions be implemented to encourage team integration, valorization of work, and physical and mental health care of workers.

Keywords:
Working Conditions; Patient Care Team; Occupational Health; Professional Burnout; Psychiatric Hospitals