Work and Confrontation with the Real for Health Professionals During COVID-19

Abstract

Healthcare professionals faced significant challenges as they worked on the front lines during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to analyze the work activity of health professionals and the implications for their mental health and subjectivity considering their conditions, organization and work routines, which were modified in view of their urgency of action in combating COVID-19. This is a qualitative exploratory study, in which 51 semi-structured interviews were conducted with health professionals from the Brazilian Unified Health System during the months of May to September 2021. The results were analyzed using the Iramuteq textual analysis software and interpreted with the Psychodynamics of Work theory. The analyzes showed the precariousness of work characterized by unpredictability and contradictions, generating fear and a sense of exposure to risks that negatively impacted the physical and mental health of workers.