Abstract
Objective
To identify the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Emergency Mobile Service of a capital of the southern region of Brazil and worker’s health.
Method
Exploratory, qualitative and descriptive study conducted with a total number of 55 workers from 16 teams of SAMU, via online form. Thematic content analysis was applied.
Results
The categories were identified: (1) Perception of changes related to COVID-19: workers notice a higher demand for respiratory related symptoms, losses in relations with network services in light of the new protocols and an increase in the response time for the cleaning up ambulances and attire and unattire; (2) Difficulties related to Personal safety equipment (PSE) and training: they feel exposed to the risk of contamination, worrying about protection resources; (3) The social and health effects on the worker: feelings of fear and insecurities about their own health and their families, as well as the limitations of social distancing.
Considerations and implications for practice
The pandemic had repercussions on work flows and routines, as well as generating new needs regarding biological precaution and emotional support.
Keywords:
Occupational Health; Working Conditions; Emergencies; Coronavirus Infections; Pandemics