THE IMPORTANCE OF ERGONOMICS IN THE HOSPITAL ENVIRONMENT: IMPACTS ON THE HEALTH AND PERFORMANCE OF THE NURSING TEAM

Abstract

Ergonomics aims to adapt working conditions to the physical and cognitive capabilities of human beings, promoting safety, well-being, and efficiency. In the hospital environment, especially in nursing, its importance becomes even greater due to repetitive activities, patient movement, and long working hours. Factors such as inadequate furniture, poorly positioned equipment, and work overload can contribute to the development of musculoskeletal injuries, fatigue, and occupational stress. In this context, the analysis of ergonomic conditions becomes fundamental to preventing work-related illnesses, reducing absenteeism, and improving the performance of professionals, also contributing to greater quality and safety in the care provided to patients. The objective is to analyze the influence of hospital ergonomics on the occupational health of nursing staff, identifying ergonomic factors present in the work environment and preventive practices aimed at protecting the health of these professionals and improving working conditions in the hospital environment. To this end, a literature review was conducted using databases such as the Virtual Health Library (BVS), Google Scholar, and SciELO, analyzing articles published in Portuguese in the last ten years that address ergonomics in the hospital environment and its impacts on occupational health. Thus, it was observed that ergonomic factors in the hospital environment directly influence the health of nursing professionals, since inadequate postures, work overload, and frequent patient movement favor the development of musculoskeletal injuries. This leads to the conclusion that hospital ergonomics is essential to prevent injuries, protect the health of nursing professionals, and improve the quality of care provided.