CONDIÇÕES DE TRABALHO EM UTI E SEUS IMPACTOS NA SAÚDE FÍSICA E MENTAL DO TRABALHADOR

Abstract

Intensive Care Units (ICUs) are highly complex care environments characterized by continuous care demands, intensive use of technology, and rapid clinical decision-making. In this context, healthcare workers are exposed to working conditions that can potentially generate physical exhaustion and psychological distress. This study aimed to analyze working conditions in ICUs and their impact on the physical and mental health of professionals through an integrative literature review with a qualitative approach. The search was conducted in the SciELO, BVS, LILACS, and MEDLINE/PubMed databases, considering articles available in full text, published in Portuguese, English, or Spanish, that addressed occupational risks, stress, burnout, and work-related illness in intensive care. The results showed a high prevalence of fatigue, musculoskeletal disorders, sleep disturbances, occupational stress, anxiety, depressive symptoms, and Burnout Syndrome, mainly associated with work overload, prolonged working hours, insufficient human resources, and frequent exposure to suffering and death. It was also observed that organizational and psychosocial factors directly influence the process of illness, while institutional support strategies, adequate staffing levels, and the promotion of mental health act as protective elements. It is concluded that improving working conditions in ICUs is fundamental for protecting the health of professionals, for the quality of care, and for patient safety, and that the implementation of institutional policies aimed at promoting healthy work environments is necessary.