HEALTH CARE IN A PSYCHIATRIC CUSTODY AND TREATMENT HOSPITAL FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF NURSING PROFESSIONALS

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the weaknesses and strengths of nursing care for people admitted to a forensic psychiatric hospital. The work was conducted through a qualitative, descriptive-exploratory research approach, with the setting being a Forensic Psychiatric Hospital in a city in the southern region of Brazil. Data collection, carried out in January 2023, was done through semi-structured interviews with 13 nursing professionals from the institution. Data analysis resulted in two categories (weaknesses and strengths) and four subcategories: infrastructure, management, health care, and nursing care. The results highlighted the weaknesses of the Brazilian public health system management in the context of justice and how these weaknesses impact the work of health professionals. On the other hand, active listening and the care provided by the nursing team stand out as fundamental tools to overcome these challenges within the judicial framework and promote comprehensive care for patients admitted to the forensic psychiatric hospital.