Risco biológico no contexto da prática de enfermagem: uma análise de situações favorecedoras.

Abstract

Backgound and Objectives: Health professionals, especially nurses, are constantly at risk for occupational accidents through exposure to different agents that can be carried in blood, secretions, skin appendages, among others. Thus, the present study aimed to describe the scientific literature regarding situations that favor the occurrence of occupational accidents. Methods: a retrospective, qualitative review study was performed by searching the database of the Virtual Health Library, from March to April 2014. A total of 15 articles were identified on the proposed subject, published between January 2008 and December 2013. Results: Among the variables that influenced the occurrence of these accidents the following were the most important ones: stress, rushing, carelessness, failure to use personal protective equipment (PPE) and the evening shift. Accident prevention is one of the main premises to be met in risky activities, especially in healthcare, in which many accidents are caused by human error probably originated from a poor education system and lack of knowledge on prevention methods and protection. Nursing professionals are exposed to risk in all areas of the institutions where there is direct contact with patients and their biological waste. Conclusion: It is necessary to implement a new paradigm of biosecurity education, aiming to develop technical, theoretical and ethical professional skills, to ensure that teams provide adequate and safe assistance. KEYWORDS: Occupational Risks; Biological Agents; Nursing.