The objective of this study is to identify the social representations of novice and veteran nurses concerning proper technology for intensive care environments and to analyze their influences on client care. It is a qualitative-descriptive study involving 24 cardio-intensive unit nurses. The Social Representations Theory, the semi-structured interview, and thematic content analysis were used. Social representations concerning technology are formed articulated to the gravity and risk of client death, which requires differentiated and special care. Therefore, the professional must have peculiar characteristics to perform in this sector. There are not differences in novice and veteran social representations, but the inexperience of novices differentiates their actions. One concludes that strategies that lead nurses to reinterpret the technology, as well as allocation policies for specialties and preferences of the nurses for the performance sectors are necessary.
Biomedical technology; Nursing care; Nursing; Intensive care units; Psychology, social