Open Journal Systems

MUSCULOSKELETAL PAIN IN PRIMARY CARE PROFESSIONALS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC: MIXED METHODS STUDY

Marcilene Marques de Freitas Tamborini, Christiane de Fátima Colet, Alexa Pupiara Flores Coelho Centenaro, Eliane Nogueira de Souza Souto, Alana Thais Gisch Andres, Carmen Cristiane Schultz, José Antonio Gonzales da Silva

Resumo


Objective: To analyze musculoskeletal pain in primary care health professionals and their experience during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Method: A mixed-methods study carried out in southern Brazil between June 2021 and February 2022. A sample of 50 participants, using questionnaires related to pain and musculoskeletal symptoms and interviews with pre-prepared scripts. Data analysis using descriptive and inferential statistics and Thematic Content Analysis.

Results: Most of the nursing sector participants worked 40 hours a week. The most affected areas are the shoulders, upper back, and neck, ranging from moderate (42%) to severe (10%) pain. Statistically significant differences related to pain and fear of contracting COVID-19 between those with previous health problems and nurses.

Conclusion: Given that pain can be associated with working conditions, it is essential to identify risk factors to avoid further damage to workers' health.


Palavras-chave


Musculoskeletal Pain; Health Personnel; COVID-19; Occupational Health; Primary Health Care.

Texto completo:

PDF (English)