A NARRATIVE REVIEW OF HOSPITAL NURSING PRACTICE AND ITS IMPACT ON NUTRITIONAL STATUS

Abstract

This article sought to critically analyze the impacts of hospital nursing work on the nutritional status of these professionals, with particular attention to the organizational and psychosocial determinants involved in this process. This narrative review was guided by the following question: How does work impact the nutritional status of hospital nurses? Based on the published studies on the topic, it can be observed how factors such as work overload, long working hours, shift work, and occupational stress directly influence nurses’ lifestyle habits, including dietary patterns, sleep quality, and physical activity. The research shows that these working conditions contribute to the development of unhealthy behaviors, such as poor diet and a sedentary lifestyle, thereby increasing the prevalence of overweight and obesity in this population. Furthermore, the study highlights the repercussions of these conditions on both the health of healthcare professionals and their job performance, which may compromise the quality of care provided. Finally, the study reinforces the importance of implementing institutional strategies aimed at promoting worker health, with a focus on improving working conditions and adopting healthier lifestyle habits.