Resumo

AHUMADA QUEZADA, Gloria Estela  e  NORIEGA ELIO, Mariano. Physical and mental health disorders associated with nursing at a children´s psychiatric hospital. Salud de los Trabajadores [online]. 2010, vol.18, n.2, pp.96-106. ISSN 1315-0138.

This study examined associations between work process and demands and adverse effects on physical and mental health (psychological, psychosomatic and musculoskeletal disorders, and injuries) among nurses at a children’s psychiatric hospital. The study population consisted of 80 persons, with a non-response rate of 11.2%. All members of the population were surveyed. Fifteen nurses in different jobs and shifts were interviewed. The study identified three main job demands: having to remain at a fixed workstation, risky work, and heavy physical exertion. The two main types of adverse health effects found were: a) psychological and psychosomatic disorders, identified in 84% of nurses, and b) musculoskeletal disorders, found in more than half the population. Remaining at a fixed workstation more than doubled the risk of experiencing psychological and psychosomatic disorders, while heavy physical exertion and risky work caused a near doubling of the risk of suffering musculoskeletal disorders. Recommendatons were made for improving the situation, several of which could be implemented immediately.

Palavras-chave : Psychiatric Nursing; Mental Health; Occupational Health.