STRESS FACTORS THAT IMPACT THE QUALITY OF CARE PROVIDED BY PROFESSIONALS WORKING IN INTENSIVE CARE UNITS

Abstract

Introduction: The Intensive Care Unit (ICU) is a highly complex sector that demands great dedication and effort from its professionals. However, this sector is a hotbed for a wide range of stress factors, given the high demands that are imposed. Objective: The aim was to identify the stress factors in ICUs that impact on the quality of care offered by nursing professionals. Methodology: An integrated literature review was carried out, with the aim of collecting and summarizing the scientific knowledge already developed on this subject in order to better understand it. Analysis and discussion of results: Health professionals are increasingly exhausted when working in the ICU, given that the mental and physical condition of this part of the workforce does not gain the necessary prominence, gaining visibility only during the Covid-19 Pandemic. Conclusion: The conclusion of this study is that stress factors have an impact on the quality of care provided by professionals, as they are exhausted by the workload and the high levels of demand in this sector.