A comparative analysis of nurses' reported number of patients and perceived appropriate number of patients in integrated nursing care services.

This study aimed to compare the number of assigned and appropriate patients per nurse in integrated nursing care service wards and analyze factors associated with the gap. For this cross-sectional secondary analysis, data were collected from surveys of 2312 nurses and institutional data from their affiliated 106 hospitals in Korea. We used the Wilcoxon signed-rank test and t-test to compare the number of patients assigned to nurses with the number they considered appropriate. We used ratio analysis for measuring the gap between these numbers, and robust regression to evaluate the factors affecting this gap. The results found an average gap of 1.45, indicating that the reported number of assigned patients per nurse was 1.45 times higher than the appropriate number. Gender, employment type, wage satisfaction, workload, overtime work, and hospital level of care were identified as factors associated with the gap. Findings suggest that the current nurse staffing standard should be revised to consider nurses' professional judgments of appropriate staffing levels and adopt policies that reduce nurses' workload.

[The analysis of demand in pathoanatomists applying staff standards].

The objective analysis of state of medical personnel, along with assessment of real need for specialists, is the basis of improving activities of any health care service. In relation to pathologists, there is unique opportunity to perform similar analysis, based on application of current corresponding staff standards that consider volume of workload of physicians in order to determine required number of positions. The implementation of corresponding original methodology permitted to establish that the actual number of staff positions of pathologists in 2022 amounted up to average 40.6% of the number required according to staffing standards in the Irkutsk Oblast. The physician staffing ratio, calculated on the basis of required number of positions found according to proposed methodology, decreases to 29.1% and staffing with physicians excluding combined jobs to 17.1%. At that, implemented workload per one pathologist reaches 5.9 of standard positions. The deficiency of representatives of this specialty in the region, even if current combined jobs ratio is maintained, is 154 specialists.

Performance During a Task That Simulates Passive Sonar Operator Duties Under Conditions of Varying Workloads.

INTRODUCTION: It is critical to develop and implement lab-based computer experiments that simulate real-world tasks in order to characterize operational requirements and challenges or identify potential solutions. Achieving a high degree of laboratory control, operational generalizability, and ease-of-use for a task is challenging, often leading to the development of tasks that can satisfy some facets but not all. This can result in insufficient solutions that leave real-world stakeholders with unsolved problems. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This issue is addressed using a customized passive sonar simulator application that provides extensive researcher control over the design and manipulation of a sonar task; a visual appearance and cognitive demand similar to a true submarine-based sonar task; and a convenient and short training routine for sonar novices. The task requires participants to watch for multiple signal sources of varying appearance and salience and subsequently classify these signals into their respective categories. RESULTS: The current study investigated the effects of stimulus signal strength and signal density on sonar task performance-including metrics of classification accuracy, classification confidence, and response times-finding an interaction between signal density and signal strength that resulted in greater performance errors with high signal density at the weakest signal strength. CONCLUSIONS: The lab-based sonar application provides new possibilities for research, not limited to signal intensity and signal density but also through the manipulation of parameters such as the number of unique targets, target appearance, and task duration. This application may illuminate the operational demands that each of these factors may have on operator behavior within the dynamic tasks.

Instruments to measure complexity of care based on nursing workload in intensive care units: A systematic review.

OBJECTIVE: To establish an evidence-based recommendation on the use of validated scoring systems that measure nursing workload in relation to the complexity of care in adult Intensive Care Units. METHODS: A systematic review based on the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) was conducted (PROSPERO registration: CRD42021251272). We searched for validation studies until July 2023 using the bibliographic databases CINAHL, Scopus, Pubmed, WOS, Cochrane Database, SCIELO, Cuiden and Cuidatge. Reference selection and data extraction was performed by two independent reviewers. The assessment of risk of bias was performed using QUADAS-2 and the overall quality according to COSMIN and GRADE approach. RESULTS: We included 22 articles identifying 10 different scoring systems. Reliability, criterion validity and hypothesis testing were the most frequently measurement properties reported. The NAS was the only tool to demonstrate a Class A recommendation (the best performing instrument). CONCLUSIONS: NAS is the best currently available scoring system to assess complexity of care from nursing workload in ICU. However, it barely met the criteria for a class A recommendation. Future efforts should be made to develop, evaluate, and implement new systems based on innovative approaches such as intensity or complexity of care. IMPLICATIONS FOR CLINICAL PRACTICE: The results facilitate decision making as it establishes a ranking of which instruments are recommended, promising or not recommended to measure the nursing workload in the intensive care units.

A Sex Comparison of the Physical and Physiological Demands of United States Marine Corps Recruit Training.

INTRODUCTION: The U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) recruit training is a 13-week preparatory period for military service men and women. Differences in absolute performance capabilities between sexes may impact physical and physiological responses to the demands of recruit training. The purpose of this study was to monitor U.S. Marine Corps recruits throughout recruit training to comparatively assess workload, sleep, stress, and performance responses in men and women. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 281 recruits (men = 182 and women = 99; age = 19 ± 2 years) were monitored and tested. Workload, sleep, and stress assessments occurred at week 2, week 7/8, and week 11 of training. Workload (energy expenditure per kg body mass [EEREL], distance [DIS], steps) and sleep (continuity and duration) were tracked over 72-hour periods using wearable accelerometry and heart rate technology. Stress responses were determined through salivary cortisol analyses. Performance testing, consisting of countermovement vertical jump (CMJ) and isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP) performance relative to body mass, occurred at weeks 2 and 11. Linear mixed models were used to test for sex, time, and sex-by-time interactions (α < .05). RESULTS: On average, recruits covered 13.0 ± 2.7 km/day, expended 3,762 ± 765 calories/day, and slept 6.2 ± 1.1 hours/night. Sex-by-time interactions were found for DIS, steps, sleep duration, cortisol, and CMJREL performance (P < .05). Planned contrasts revealed that men covered more DIS than women at week 7/8 (P < .001). Women experienced greater step counts compared to men at week 11 (P = .004). Women experienced no significant change in sleep duration (P > .05), whereas men increased sleep duration from week 2 to week 7/8 (P = .03). Women experienced greater sleep duration at week 2 (P = .03) and week 11 (P = .02) compared to men. Women exhibited higher cortisol levels than men at week 2 (P < .001) and week 11 (P < .001). Women experienced declines in cortisol at week 7 compared to week 2 (P < .001). Men experienced no changes in cortisol response at any timepoint (P > .05). Both sexes experienced declines in CMJREL from week 2 to week 11 (P > .001). Sex main effects were observed for EEREL, DIS, CMJREL, and IMTPREL (P < .05) with men experiencing greater overall workloads and producing greater strength and power metrics. Sex main effects were also found for sleep continuity and cortisol (P < .05), for which men experienced lower values compared to women. Time main effects were observed for EEREL, DIS, steps, cortisol, CMJREL, and IMTPREL (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS: This study not only highlights the known sex differences between men and women but also sheds light on the different physical and physiological responses of each sex to military training. Interestingly, the greatest physical demands incurred earlier in the training cycle. Despite declining workloads, the stress response was maintained throughout the training, which may have implications for adaptation and performance. In addition, average sleep duration fell notably below recommendations for optimizing health and recovery. Effectively monitoring the demands and performance outcomes during recruit training is essential for determining individual fitness capabilities, as well as establishing the effectiveness of a training program. Individual performance assessments and adequately periodized workloads may help to optimize recruit training for both men and women.

Low back pain, work overload, and associated factors among hospital caregivers.

BACKGROUND: Caregivers assist patients in treatment based on their care needs and living activities. Very few studies have been conducted specifically on the occupational health and safety of hospital caregivers. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of excessive workload and low back pain among hospital caregivers and to identify potential associated factors. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included caregivers working at Gazi University Hospital. Socio-demographic and working-life characteristics were assessed. The Role Overload Scale was used to determine excessive workload and the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire was used to evaluate low back pain. RESULTS: The study included 528 participants. A total of 18.7% had work accidents in their department. 49.0% had sharp injuries. 68.9% of the participants performed tasks such as positioning, turning, lifting, or helping patients to walk. 72.2% stood for a long time during the workday. 52.8% thought that they worked under stress. 57.6% had low back pain in the last year and 38.6% in the last month, Significant differences exist in low back pain according to gender, body-mass index, standing for a long time and working under stress. Those who worked at night, had a work accident, positioned patients, stood for a long time, and worked under stress had higher mean scores on the Role Overload Scale. CONCLUSION: Tools should be used to lift and transport patients. In addition to occupational health and safety training, awareness of musculoskeletal risks should be increased. Employee well-being can be improved through exercise and stress reduction techniques.

Swedish maternity care professionals' perception of labor induction.

BACKGROUND: Sweden recently adopted new labor induction guidelines lowering the threshold for post-term pregnancies to 41+ weeks. Despite evidence-based foundation, these guidelines stirred controversy among maternity care professionals, who voiced concerns about potential risks and unintended consequences, such as a rising Caesarean section rate. Midwives also highlighted potential impacts on their roles, workload, and working environment; implications that could affect obstetricians and gynecologists as well. Investigating Swedish maternity care professionals' views on labor induction could benefit policymakers, managers, and birthing women alike. AIM: The aim of this study was to describe and compare midwives to obstetricians/gynecologists, with regards to their views on labor induction, and how this relates to other work-related variables such as overall job satisfaction, clinical experience, gender, age, personality, and workload. METHODS: Swedish midwives (N = 207, 99 % women, M = 45.2 years), and obstetricians/gynecologists (N = 240, 83 % women, M = 44.3 years) responded to an online questionnaire reflecting aspects of maternity care work. The data was analyzed using Welch's t-test and Pearson's correlation analysis. RESULTS: A large difference was observed in labor induction views between midwives and obstetricians/gynecologists (d = 1.39), as well as lower job satisfaction with midwives (d = -0.26). Overall job satisfaction further correlated negatively with views on labor induction (r = -0.30). CONCLUSIONS: Labor inductions might pose challenges to midwives and could bring to light underlying tensions between obstetricians/gynecologists and midwives. Given the modest response rate of the study, we cautiously suggest that while the development of new maternity care guidelines should be grounded in evidence, they should also embrace concerns and insights from a diversity of professional perspectives.

Time and quality of admissions: nursing workload / Tiempo y calidad de las admisiones: carga de trabajo en enfermería / Tempo e qualidade das admissões: carga de trabalho em enfermagem

ABSTRACT Objectives: to measure the average time spent by the nursing staff during patient admission and investigate their compliance with the activities described by the Nursing Interventions Classification; evaluate the degree of interference in the workload of the team. Methods: observational with time measurement through software. We followed 199 admissions made by the nursing staff in seven units, using two validated instruments. Total scores ≥ 70% and 50% validated the process. Results: the average time of nurses ranged from 5.5 (standard deviation = 2.3) to 13 (standard deviation = 1.1) minutes; and the auxiliary / technician, between 4.7 (standard deviation = 2.1) and 6.8 (standard deviation = 2.0) minutes (p ≤ 0.01). We qualified six admissions made by nurses and 33 by assistants/technicians. The intervention spent 16.3% to 31.5% of the working hours of the team. Conclusions: admission impacts nursing workload and needs to be considered both in the measurement of activities and in the sizing of the nursing staff.

RESUMEN Objetivos: mensurar el tiempo medio ha gastado por el equipo de enfermería durante la admisión de pacientes e investigar su conformidad en relación a las actividades descriptas por la Clasificación de las Intervenciones de Enfermería; evaluar el grado de interferencia sobre la carga de trabajo del equipo. Métodos: observacional con cronometraje de tiempo por medio de un software. Se acompañaron 199 admisiones realizadas por el equipo de enfermería en siete unidades utilizándose dos instrumentos validados. Apuntalados el total ≥ 70% y 50% calificaban el proceso. Resultados: el tiempo medio de los enfermeros varió de 5,5 (desviación típica = 2,3) a 13 (desviación típica = 1,1) minutos; y de los auxiliares/técnicos, entre 4,7 (desviación típica = 2,1) y 6,8 (desviación típica = 2,0) minutos (p ≤ 0,01). Seis admisiones realizadas por enfermeros y 33 por auxiliares/técnicos se mostraron calificadas. La intervención ha gastado de 16,3% a 31,5% del tiempo de la jornada de trabajo del equipo. Conclusiones: la admisión impacta sobre la carga de trabajo y precisa ser considerada tanto en la medición de las actividades como en el dimensionamiento del equipo de enfermería.

RESUMO Objetivos: mensurar o tempo médio despendido pela equipe de enfermagem durante a admissão de pacientes e investigar sua conformidade em relação às atividades descritas pela Classificação das Intervenções de Enfermagem; avaliar o grau de interferência sobre a carga de trabalho da equipe. Métodos: observacional com cronometragem de tempo por meio de um software. Acompanharam-se 199 admissões realizadas pela equipe de enfermagem em sete unidades utilizando-se dois instrumentos validados. Escores total ≥ 70% e 50% qualificavam o processo. Resultados: o tempo médio dos enfermeiros variou de 5,5 (desvio padrão = 2,3) a 13 (desvio padrão = 1,1) minutos; e dos auxiliares/técnicos, entre 4,7 (desvio padrão = 2,1) e 6,8 (desvio padrão = 2,0) minutos (p ≤ 0,01). Seis admissões realizadas por enfermeiros e 33 por auxiliares/técnicos mostraram-se qualificadas. A intervenção despendeu de 16,3% a 31,5% do tempo da jornada de trabalho da equipe. Conclusões: a admissão impacta a carga de trabalho e precisa ser considerada tanto na mensuração das atividades como no dimensionamento da equipe de enfermagem.

The quality of life of family health professionals: a systematic review and meta-synthesis / Calidad de vida de profesionales de Salud de la Familia: una revisión sistemática y metasíntesis / Qualidade de vida de profissionais da Saúde da Família: uma revisão sistemática e metassíntese

ABSTRACT Objectives: to perform a systematic review and meta-synthesis of qualitative studies about the work-related quality of life of Family Health Strategy professionals. Methods: this systematic review was developed to answer the following PVO question: "Which factors (variables) are associated with the work-related quality of life (outcome) of Family Health Strategy professionals (population)?" The PubMed, Scopus, Embase, SciELO, Web of Science, LILACS, Science Direct, OpenThesis, OpenGrey, and OATD databases were selected. The meta-synthesis analyzed the main codes and secondary codes of all included studies. Results: the database search resulted in 1,744 reports; six were considered eligible for the meta-synthesis. Four factors were considered for the quality of work life: working conditions; work processes; interpersonal relationships; and personal aspects. Conclusions: although this study confirms the adequacy of aspects commonly related to the quality of work life, other factors are important in the case of FHS professionals, especially work context.

RESUMEN Objetivos: desarrollar una revisión sistemática y metaanálisis de estudios cualitativos sobre la calidad de vida relacionada al trabajo de profesionales de Salud de la Familia. Métodos: la revisión sistemática se desarrolló para responder la siguiente pregunta pautada en metodología PVO: "¿Cuáles factores (variables) están asociados con la calidad de vida relacionada al trabajo (resultado) de profesionales de Estrategia Salud de la Familia (población)?". Fueron seleccionadas las bases PubMed, Scopus, Embase, SciELO, Web of Science, LILACS, Science Direct, OpenThesis, OpenGrey y OATD. La metasíntesis analizó las categorías principales y subcategorías de todos los estudios incluidos. Resultados: la búsqueda en bases halló 1.744 registros, seis de ellos fueron considerados elegibles para la calidad de vida relacionada al trabajo: condiciones laborales, proceso de trabajo, relaciones interpersonales y aspectos personales. Conclusiones: Aunque este estudio confirme que algunos aspectos habitualmente relacionados con la calidad de vida son adecuados, hay otros factores importantes para los profesionales de Salud de la Familia, particularmente el ámbito laboral.

RESUMO Objetivos: desenvolver uma revisão sistemática e metanálise de estudos qualitativos sobre a qualidade de vida relacionada ao trabalho de profissionais da Saúde da Família. Métodos: a revisão sistemática foi desenvolvida para responder à seguinte questão pautada no método PVO: "Quais fatores (variáveis) estão associados com a qualidade de vida relacionada ao trabalho (resultado) de profissionais da Estratégia Saúde da Família (população)?" As bases de dados PubMed, Scopus, Embase, SciELO, Web of Science, LILACS, Science Direct, OpenThesis, OpenGrey e OATD foram selecionadas. A metassíntese analisou as categorias principais e subcategorias de todos os estudos incluídos. Resultados: a busca na base de dados resultou em 1.744 registros, e seis deles foram considerados elegíveis para a metassíntese. Quatro fatores foram considerados para a qualidade de vida relacionada ao trabalho: condições de trabalho, processo de trabalho, relações interpessoais e aspectos pessoais. Conclus ões : embora este estudo confirme a adequação de aspectos comumente relacionados à qualidade de vida no trabalho, outros fatores são importantes no caso dos profissionais da Saúde da Família, especialmente o contexto de trabalho.

The human condition of the nursing worker from the perspective of Hannah Arendt / Condición humana del trabajador de enfermería desde la perspectiva de Hannah Arendt / Condição humana do trabalhador de enfermagem na perspectiva de Hannah Arendt

ABSTRACT Objective: This study intends to analyze how the human condition of the nurse is established in the context of Psychosocial Care Centers (Caps). Method: theoretical-reflexive study, anchored in three essential parts: 1) Theoretical and philosophical conception of the human condition from Hannah Arendt's perspective; 2) The nurse's work in the Caps; and 3) Human condition to think about the work of the nurse. Results: in the context of the Caps, the work can be represented by the psychic significations; the work, through the production of nurses' practice of care; and the action by the relations established between worker and institution, worker and user. Final considerations: the understanding of the vita activa allows to reflect on the human condition of the nurse in their work context and (re) considers a better understanding about the impact of the work on the life of these mental health workers in the contemporaneity.

RESUMEN Objetivo: evaluar cómo se establece la condición humana del enfermero en contexto de Centros de Atención Psicosocial (Caps). Método: estudio teórico y de reflexión a partir de tres partes esenciales: 1) Concepción teórica y filosófica de la condición humana desde la perspectiva de Hannah Arendt; 2) El trabajo del enfermero en los Caps; y 3) Condición humana para pensar el trabajo del enfermero. Resultados: el contexto de trabajo del Caps, la labor puede representarse por las significaciones psíquicas; obra por la producción de la práctica asistencial del enfermero; y la acción por las relaciones establecidas entre el trabajador y la institución, el trabajador y el usuario. Consideraciones finales: la comprensión de la vita activa permite reflexionar sobre la condición humana del enfermero en su contexto de trabajo y (re)considera en la contemporaneidad una mejor comprensión sobre el impacto del trabajo en la vida de esos trabajadores de la salud mental.

RESUMO Objetivo: analisar como se estabelece a condição humana do enfermeiro no contexto dos Centros de Atenção Psicossocial (Caps). Método: estudo teórico-reflexivo, ancorado em três partes essenciais: 1) Concepção teórica e filosófica da condição humana na perspectiva de Hannah Arendt; 2) O trabalho do enfermeiro nos Caps; e 3) Condição humana para pensar o trabalho do enfermeiro. Resultados: no contexto de trabalho do Caps, o labor pode ser representado pelas significações psíquicas; a obra, pela produção da prática assistencial do enfermeiro; e a ação pelas relações estabelecidas entre trabalhador e instituição, trabalhador e usuário. Considerações finais: a compreensão da vita activa permite refletir sobre a condição humana do enfermeiro em seu contexto de trabalho e (re)considera na contemporaneidade uma melhor compreensão sobre o impacto do trabalho na vida desses trabalhadores da saúde mental.

Care time and quality indicators in Intensive Care Units / Tiempo de atención e indicadores de calidad en Unidades de Terapia Intensiva / Tempo de assistência e indicadores de qualidade em Unidades de Terapia Intensiva

ABSTRACT Objective: To verify the correlation between nursing care time and care quality indicators. Method: Observational, correlational study, developed in 11 Intensive Care Units. The population comprised records of the number of nursing professionals, the number of patients with at least one of the Oro/Nasogastroenteral Probe (GEPRO), Endotracheal Tube (COT) and Central Venous Catheter (CVC) therapeutic devices and the occurrences related to the losses of these artifacts. Results: The time corresponded to 18.86 hours (Hospital A), 21 hours (Hospital B) and 19.50 hours (Hospital C); the Unplanned Outflow Incidence of GEPRO indicator presented a mean of 2.19/100 patients/day; Unplanned Extubation of COT Incidence, 0.42/100 patients/day; and CVC Loss Incidence, 0.22/100 patients/day. There was no statistically significant correlation between time and indicators analyzed. Conclusion: This research may support methodological decisions for future investigations that seek the impact of human resources on the care quality and patient safety.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Verificar la correlación entre tiempo de atención de enfermería e indicadores de calidad asistencial. Método: Estudio observacional, correlacional, desarrollado en 11 Unidades de Terapia Intensiva. La población comprendió registros del cuantitativo de los profesionales de enfermería, del número de portadores de, al menos, uno de los dispositivos terapéuticos Sonda Oro/Nasogastroenteral (SONGE), Cánula Endotraqueal (COT) y Cateter Venoso Central (CVC) y de las ocurrencias relativas a las pérdidas de estos artefactos. Resultados: El tiempo correspondió a 18,86 horas (Hospital A), 21 horas (Hospital B) y 19,50 horas (Hospital C); el indicador Incidencia de Salida No Planeada de SONGE presentó una media de 2,19/100 pacientes/día; Incidencia de Extubación no planificada de COT, 0,42/100 pacientes/día; e Incidencia de Pérdida CVC, 0,22/100 pacientes/día. No hubo correlación estadísticamente significativa entre el tiempo y los indicadores analizados. Conclusión: Esta investigación puede apoyar decisiones metodológicas para investigaciones futuras que buscan el impacto de los recursos humanos en la calidad asistencial y seguridad de los pacientes.

RESUMO Objetivo: Verificar a correlação entre tempo de assistência de enfermagem e indicadores de qualidade assistencial. Método: Estudo observacional, correlacional, desenvolvido em 11 Unidades de Terapia Intensiva. A população compreendeu registros do quantitativo dos profissionais de enfermagem, do número dos portadores de, ao menos, um dos dispositivos terapêuticos Sonda Oro/Nasogastroenteral (SONGE), Cânula Endotraqueal (COT) e Cateter Venoso Central (CVC) e das ocorrências relativas às perdas desses artefatos. Resultados: O tempo correspondeu a 18,86 horas (Hospital A), 21 horas (Hospital B) e 19,50 horas (Hospital C); o indicador Incidência de Saída Não Planejada de SONGE apresentou média de 2,19/100 pacientes/dia; Incidência de Extubação não Planejada de COT, 0,42/100 pacientes/dia; e Incidência de Perda CVC, 0,22/100 pacientes/dia. Não houve correlação estatisticamente significante entre o tempo e os indicadores analisados. Conclusão: Esta pesquisa pode apoiar decisões metodológicas para investigações futuras que buscam o impacto dos recursos humanos na qualidade assistencial e segurança dos pacientes.

Nursing Activities Score and the cost of nursing care required and available / El Nursing Activities Score y el costo de la asistencia de Enfermería requerida y disponible / Nursing Activities Score e custo da assistência de enfermagem requerida e disponível

ABSTRACT Objective: To estimate the cost of nursing care required and available through the use of the Nursing Activities Score. Method: Quantitative study, direct costing of nursing care required and available in the Intensive Care Units. Data collection included variables of the patients, nursing professionals and nursing workload measured by the Nursing Activities Score. The cost of nursing care was estimated by multiplying the cost of each hour with the total number of hours of care per category. Results: The negative difference of R$ 94,791.5 between the cost of available and required nursing care indicated an increase of 3.2 nurses and 7.0 nursing technicians. Conclusion: The cost of nursing care required identified through the application of the Nursing Activities Score, which is higher than the cost of available care, indicates the need to adjust the number of professionals to meet patients' demands.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Determinar el costo de la asistencia de Enfermería requerida y disponible con el uso del Nursing Activities Score. Método: Estudio cuantitativo, con análisis de costo directo de la asistencia de Enfermería requerida y disponible en las Unidades de Terapia Intensiva. La recolección de los datos incluyó variables de los pacientes, profesionales de Enfermería y carga de trabajo de Enfermería medida por el Nursing Activities Score. El costo de la asistencia de Enfermería fue determinado por la multiplicación entre el costo de cada hora y el total de horas de la asistencia por categoría. Resultados: La diferencia negativa de 94.791,5 reales entre el costo de la asistencia de Enfermería disponible y requerida indicó un aumento de 3,2 enfermeros y 7,0 técnicos de Enfermería. Conclusión: El costo de la asistencia de Enfermería requerida identificado por medio de la aplicación del Nursing Activities Score, más elevado que el costo de la asistencia disponible, indica la necesidad de ajustar el número de profesionales para atender las demandas de los pacientes.

RESUMO Objetivo: Estimar o custo da assistência de enfermagem requerida e disponível com o uso do Nursing Activities Score. Método: Estudo quantitativo, análise de custo direto da assistência de enfermagem requerida e disponível nas Unidades de Terapia Intensiva. A coleta dos dados incluiu variáveis dos pacientes, profissionais de enfermagem e carga de trabalho de enfermagem medida pelo Nursing Activities Score. O custo da assistência de enfermagem foi estimado pela multiplicação entre o custo de cada hora e o total de horas da assistência por categoria. Resultados: A diferença negativa de R$ 94.791,5 entre o custo da assistência de enfermagem disponível e requerida indicou acréscimo de 3,2 enfermeiros e 7,0 técnicos de enfermagem. Conclusão: O custo da assistência de enfermagem requerida identificado por meio da aplicação do Nursing Activities Score, mais elevado que o custo da assistência disponível, indica a necessidade de ajustar o número de profissionais para atender às demandas dos pacientes.

Quality of life in the climacteric of nurses working in primary care / Calidad de vida en el climaterio de enfermeras que actúan en la atención primaria / Qualidade de vida no climatério de enfermeiras atuantes na atenção primária

ABSTRACT Objective: to evaluate the quality of life of primary care nurses in the climacteric. Method: A cross-sectional descriptive-analytic study, performed with 98 female nurses, aged 40-65 years, using the WHOQOL-Bref questionnaire. Results: the worst level of quality of life was observed for professionals aged 50-59 years, non-white, specialists, divorced or widowed, with children, a lower income, with another employment relationship, a weekly workload of more than 40 hours, who consumed alcoholic beverages weekly, with chronic disease, in continuous use of medications, sedentary, who did not menstruate and did not receive hormonal treatment, and who went through menopause between the ages of 43-47 years. Conclusion: Although the variables "physical activity" and "age" have a statistically significant association with quality of life, other variables seem to interfere in these professionals' lives, indicating the need for a more critical and deep reflection on these relations.

RESUMEN Objetivo: evaluar la calidad de vida de enfermeras en el climaterio que actúan en la atención primaria. Método: estudio descriptivo y de análisis, de cohorte transversal, realizado con 98 enfermeras, de entre 40 y 65 años de edad, en que se utilizó el cuestionario WHOQOL-Bref. Resultados: presentaron un peor nivel de calidad de vida las profesionales: de entre 50 y 59 años de edad, no blancas, con especialización, divorciadas o viudas, con hijos, con menor renta familiar, que tenían otro vínculo de empleo, con carga laboral semanal superior a 40 horas, que consumían alcohol semanalmente, portadoras de enfermedad crónica, en el uso continuo de medicamentos, sedentarias, que no menstruaban y no estaban bajo tratamiento hormonal, y cuya menopausia empezó entre 43 y 47 años de edad. Conclusión: a pesar de la variable "realización de actividad física" y de la variable "edad" haber presentado una asociación estadísticamente significativa con la calidad de vida, otras variables parecen afectar la calidad de vida de esas profesionales, lo que demanda una reflexión crítica y más profundizada sobre esas relaciones.

RESUMO Objetivo: avaliar a qualidade de vida de enfermeiras no climatério atuantes na atenção primária. Método: estudo descritivo-analítico, de corte transversal, realizado com 98 enfermeiras, com idade entre 40 e 65 anos, utilizando-se o questionário WHOQOL-Bref. Resultados: apresentaram pior nível de qualidade de vida as profissionais com idade entre 50 e 59 anos, não brancas, especialistas, divorciadas ou viúvas, com filhos, com menor renda, possuidoras de outro vínculo empregatício, carga horária de trabalho semanal acima de 40 horas, que ingeriam bebida alcoólica semanalmente, portadoras de doença crônica, em uso contínuo de medicamentos, sedentárias, que não menstruavam e não faziam tratamento hormonal, e que apresentaram a menopausa entre 43 e 47 anos. Conclusão: apesar das variáveis "realização de atividade física" e "idade" terem uma associação estatisticamente significante com a qualidade de vida, outras variáveis parecem interferir na dessas profissionais, indicando a necessidade de uma reflexão crítica e mais aprofundada sobre essas relações.

Medication administration - nursing workload and patient safety in clinical wards / Administração de medicamentos - carga de trabalho de enfermagem e segurança do paciente em unidades clínicas hospitalares / Administración de medicamentos - carga de trabajo de enfermería y seguridad del paciente en unidades clínicas

ABSTRACT Objective: to analyze the characteristics of the work organization performed by nursing staff regarding medication administration procedures and their implications on the workload of these professionals and on patient safety. Method: the study design is exploratory, with mixed method research and an ecological restorative approach. Data were collected between January 2014 and March 2015, in three inpatient units of a teaching hospital in the south of Brazil, by means of photo walkabout and focus groups, in the qualitative step. In the quantitative phase data were collected from the 162 lists of patients assigned to nursing technicians during their work shifts. Results: the administration of medications has an impact on the professionals' workload and patient safety. Final considerations: there are weaknesses in the process that may contribute to medication administration errors, which are related to the number of doses and the number of patients assigned to each professional.

RESUMO Objetivo: analisar as características da organização do trabalho da equipe de enfermagem quanto aos procedimentos de administração de medicamentos e suas implicações na carga de trabalho desses profissionais e na segurança do paciente. Método: estudo exploratório, com método misto de pesquisa e abordagem restaurativa ecológica. Os dados foram coletados entre janeiro de 2014 e março de 2015, em três unidades de internação de um hospital universitário do sul do Brasil, por meio de caminhada fotográfica (CF) e grupos focais (GF) na etapa qualitativa. Na fase quantitativa, foram coletados dados das 162 listas de pacientes atribuídos aos técnicos de enfermagem durante seus turnos de trabalho. Resultados: a administração de medicamentos impacta na carga de trabalho dos profissionais e na segurança dos pacientes. Considerações finais: as fragilidades existentes no processo podem contribuir para erros na administração de medicamentos, que estão relacionados com o número de doses e ao número de pacientes atribuídos a cada profissional.

RESUMEN Objetivo: analizar las características de la organización del trabajo real del equipo de enfermería en cuanto a los procedimientos de administración de medicamentos y sus implicaciones en la carga de trabajo de estos profesionales y en la seguridad del paciente. Método: investigación exploratoria con método mixto y enfoque ecológico y restaurativo. Los datos fueron recolectados entre enero de 2014 y marzo de 2015 en tres unidades de internación de un hospital universitario del sur de Brasil, por medio de caminada fotográfica (CF) y grupos focales (GF) en la etapa cualitativa. En la fase cuantitativa, se recogieron datos de las 162 listas de pacientes asignados a los técnicos de enfermería durante sus turnos de trabajo. Resultados: la administración de medicamentos tiene un impacto en la carga de trabajo de los profesionales y en la seguridad del paciente. Consideraciones finales: hay debilidades en el proceso que pueden contribuir a los errores de administración de medicamentos, que están relacionados con el número de dosis y el número de pacientes asignados a cada profesional.

Interruptions and nursing workload during medication administration process / Interrupciones y carga de trabajo de enfermería durante la administración de medicamentos / Interrupções e carga de trabalho de enfermagem durante a administração de medicamentos

ABSTRACT Objective: To investigate the sources and causes of interruptions during the medication administration process performed by a nursing team and measure its frequency, duration and impact on the team's workload. Métodos: This is an observational study that timed 121 medication rounds (preparation, administration and documentation) performed by 15 nurses and nine nursing technicians in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in the countryside of the state of São Paulo. Resultados: 63 (52.1%) interruptions were observed. In each round, the number of interruptions that happened ranged from 1-7, for 127 in total; these occurred mainly during the preparation phase, 97 (76.4%). The main interruption sources were: nursing staff - 48 (37.8%) − and self-interruptions - 29 (22.8%). The main causes were: information exchanges - 54 (42.5%) − and parallel conversations - 28 (22%). The increase in the mean time ranged from 53.7 to 64.3% (preparation) and from 18.3 to 19.2% (administration) - p≤0.05. Conclusão: Interruptions in the medication process are frequent, interfere in the workload of the nursing team and may reflect on the safety of care.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Examinar las fuentes y las causas de interrupciones durante el proceso de administración de medicamentos realizado por el personal de enfermería y también medir su frecuencia, duración e impacto sobre la carga de trabajo de estos. Métodos: Estudio observacional con tiempos cronometrados durante 121 rondas de medicación (preparación, administración y documentación) realizadas por 15 enfermeros y 9 técnicos de enfermería en una Unidad de Cuidado Intensivo Neonatal en el interior de São Paulo. Resultados: Se observaron 63 (52,1%) interrupciones. En cada ronda, ocurrieron de 1-7, totalizando 127, principalmente en la fase de preparación, 97 (76,4%). Las principales fuentes fueron: el personal de enfermería -48 (37,8%)-, y las autointerrupciones -29 (22,8%)-. Ya las principales causas fueron: el intercambio de información -54 (42,5%)- y la conversación paralela -28 (22%)-. El incremento del promedio del tiempo varió del 53,7% al 64,3% (preparación) y del 18,3% al 19,2% (administración) p≤0,05. Conclusión: Las interrupciones en el proceso medicamentoso son frecuentes, interfieren en la carga de trabajo de la enfermería y pueden comprometer la seguridad del cuidado.

RESUMO Objetivo: Investigar fontes e causas das interrupções durante o processo de administração de medicamentos realizado pela equipe de enfermagem e mensurar sua frequência, duração e impacto sobre a carga de trabalho. Métodos: Observacional com tempos cronometrados durante 121 rodadas de medicação (preparo, administração e documentação) realizadas por 15 enfermeiros e nove técnicos de enfermagem em Unidade de Terapia Intensiva Neonatal no interior de São Paulo. Resultados: Foram observadas 63 (52,1%) interrupções. Em cada rodada, ocorreram de 1-7totalizando 127, principalmente na fase de preparo, 97 (76,4%). As principais fontes constituíram-se em: equipe de enfermagem − 48 (37,8%) − e autointerrupções − 29(22,8%). Já as principais causas: troca de informações - 54 (42,5%) − e conversa paralela - 28 (22%). O aumento do tempo médio variou de 53,7 a 64,3% (preparo) e de 18,3 a 19,2% (administração) p≤0,05. Conclusão: Interrupções no processo medicamentoso são frequentes, interferem na carga de trabalho da enfermagem e podem refletir na segurança do cuidado.

Validación de la Escala de Carga de Trabajo en Trabajadores Peruanos / Validation of workload scale in peruvian workers

El presente estudio tuvo por objetivo, realizar la validación de la Escala de Carga de Trabajo en trabajadores peruanos. El muestreo fue de tipo intencional -170 trabajadores de una empresa de químicos y detergentes (83 mujeres)- predominantemente con educación técnica, ubicada en Lima Metropolitana. Se aplicó un análisis factorial confirmatorio para evaluar la dimensionalidad de los ítems y la equivalencia entre hombres y mujeres. Se realizaron estimaciones de la fiabilidad por consistencia interna, y una regresión lineal de variables demográficas sobre la carga de trabajo. Se halló una estructura factorial unidimensional y, la equivalencia métrica de los ítems fue similar entre hombres y mujeres; la fiabilidad fue aceptable y, la intensidad de la carga de trabajo varió levemente de acuerdo al tipo de contrato laboral del trabajador

The objective of this study was to validate the Workload Scale in Peruvian workers. The sampling was purposive - 170 industrial workers at a chemical and detergent company with a technical education (83 of whom were women)- located in Metropolitan Lima. We used confirmatory factor analysis to evaluate the dimensionality of the items and the equivalence between men and women; reliability estimates of internal consistency; and linear regression of demographic variables on the workload were estimated. A one-dimensional factorial structure was found, and the metric equivalence of the items was similar between men and women; the reliability was acceptable, and workload intensity varied slightly by the type of labor contract

Workload: a comparison between the online and observational methods / Carga horaria de trabajo: comparación de los métodos observacionales y online / Carga horária de trabalho: comparação dos métodos observacional e on-line

ABSTRACT Objective: To measure nursing Workload (WL) of nurses who work in the Inpatient Unit, as recommended by the Nursing Interventions Classification (NIC), comparing observational and online methods to propose supervision strategies for academic professionals. Method: Quantitative, descriptive, observational study performed in a Clinical/Surgical Hospital Unit. 30 direct and indirect activities. Data collected in observational and online records. Statistical analysis: SPSS 18.0 software, percentage frequencies and associated times between groups by Fisher's Exact test, 95% confidence interval, significance level 5%. Results: Comparing the activities performed with the NIC time: from the direct 16, five observational and five online, were out of range, with no significant difference between frequencies (P=0.427). Of the 14 indirect, only in the observational, two were out of the range, without significant difference (P=0.486). Conclusion: Both methods measure WL; the online method developed accompanies activities performed in real time.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Medir la carga de trabajo (CT) de los enfermeros que actúan en Unidad de Internación, según preconiza la Nursing Interventions Classification (NIC), comparando los métodos observacional y online, para proponer estrategias de supervisión de los profesionales y académicos. Método: Estudio observacional descriptivo cuantitativo realizado en una Unidad de Internación Clínica/Quirúrgica. 30 actividades directas e indirectas. Datos recogidos en registros observacionales y en línea. Análisis estadístico: Software SPSS 18.0, frecuencias porcentuales y tiempos asociados entre grupos por la prueba Exacto de Fisher, intervalo de confianza 95%, nivel de significancia 5%. Resultados: Comparando las actividades realizadas con el tiempo preconizado por la NIC: de las 16 directas, cinco en el observacional y cinco en el on-line, estaban fuera del intervalo, sin diferencia significativa entre frecuencias (P=0,427). De las 14 indirectas, sólo en el observacional, dos estaban fuera del intervalo, sin diferencia significativa (P=0,486). Conclusión: Ambos métodos sirven para medir CT; el método online desarrollado acompaña actividades ejecutadas en tiempo real.

RESUMO Objetivo: Mensurar a Carga de Trabalho (CT) dos enfermeiros que atuam em Unidade de Internação, conforme preconiza a Nursing Interventions Classification (NIC), comparando os métodos observacional e on-line, para propor estratégias de supervisão dos profissionais eacadêmicos. Método: Estudo observacional descritivo quantitativo realizado em uma Unidade de Internação Clínica/Cirúrgica. 30 atividades diretas e indiretas. Dados levantados em registros observacional e on-line. Análise estatística: Software SPSS 18.0, frequências percentuais e tempos associadas entre grupos pelo teste Exato de Fisher, intervalo de confiança 95%, nível de significância 5%. Resultados: Comparando as atividades executadas com o tempo preconizado pela NIC: das 16 diretas, cinco no observacional e cinco no on-line, estavam fora do intervalo, sem diferença significativa entre frequências (P=0,427). Das 14 indiretas, apenas no observacional, duas estavam fora do intervalo, sem diferença significativa (P=0,486). Conclusão: Ambos os métodos servem para medir CT; o método on-line desenvolvido acompanha atividades executadas em tempo real.

Permanent education in the vaccination room: what is the reality? / Educación permanente en sala de vacuna: ¿cuál es la realidad? / Educação permanente em sala de vacina: qual a realidade?

ABSTRACT Objective: To understand, from the perspective of the professional, the Permanent Education (PE) in the vaccination room in its real context. Method: Multiple holistic-qualitative case studies, based on Maffesoli's Interpretive Sociology with 56 participants from four microregions of the Western Extended Region of Minas Gerais State. Results: They present PE as infrequent and insufficient. They denote that the practical-theoretical experience with vaccine contributes to the work; the search for knowledge, starting from the professional itself; and the professional training fails to perform in the vaccination room. Final considerations: The notions of PE are linked to the daily needs of individuals and services, with indication of being interactive, periodic, in specific and non-global issues for better assimilation. Obstacles to the non-implementation of PEH are realized by the workload associated with insufficient human resources, the distance of the nurses from the vaccination room and the lack of support from the higher levels.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Comprender, bajo la óptica del profesional, la Educación Permanente (EP) en sala de vacuna en su contexto real. Método: Estudio de casos múltiples holístico-cualitativo, fundamentado en la Sociología Comprensiva del Cotidiano con 56 participantes de cuatro microrregiones de la Región Ampliada Oeste de Minas Gerais. Resultados: Presentan la EP como poco frecuente e insuficiente. Denotan que la experiencia práctico-teórica con vacuna contribuye con el trabajo, la búsqueda del conocimiento partiendo del propio profesional y la formación profesional falla para la actuación en sala de vacuna. Consideraciones finales: Los conceptos de EP están ligadas a las necesidades cotidianas individuales y de los servicios, con indicios de ser interactiva, periódica, en temas puntuales y no globales para una mejor asimilación. Los obstáculos para la no realización de la EPS se concretan en la sobrecarga de trabajo asociada a los recursos humanos insuficientes, el distanciamiento del enfermero de la sala de vacuna y la falta de apoyo de las instancias superiores.

RESUMO Objetivo: Compreender, sob a ótica do profissional, a Educação Permanente (EP) em sala de vacina em seu contexto real. Método: Estudo de casos múltiplos holístico-qualitativo, fundamentado na Sociologia Compreensiva do Cotidiano com 56 participantes de quatro microrregiões da Região Ampliada Oeste de Minas Gerais. Resultados: Apresentam a EP como pouco frequente e insuficiente. Denotam que a experiência prático-teórica com vacina contribui com o trabalho, a busca do conhecimento partindo do próprio profissional e a formação profissional falha para atuação em sala de vacina. Considerações finais: As noções de EP vêm atreladas às necessidades cotidianas individuais e dos serviços, com indicação de ser interativa, periódica, em temas pontuais e não globais para melhor assimilação. Os entraves para não realização da EPS se concretizam na sobrecarga de trabalho associada a recursos humanos insuficientes, o distanciamento do enfermeiro da sala de vacina e a falta de apoio das instâncias superiores.

Adecuación de escalas para medir cargas de trabajo mediante metodología de calidad / Adequação de escores para medir cargas horárias através de uma metodologia de qualidade / Assessing the adequacy of workload measurement tools using a quality-based methodology

RESUMEN Objetivo: Determinar cuál de las escalas evaluadas (NEMS y NAS), es más adecuada para Unidades de Cuidados Intensivos aplicando metodología de calidad. Método: Tras identificar como oportunidad de mejora la no adecuación de la escala NEMS para determinar cargas de trabajo de enfermería en UCI, se aplica metodología de los ciclos de mejora a dicha escala y a la NAS, como propuesta de mejora, evaluando los criterios: medición de cargas de trabajo al día y por turno, inclusión de todas las actividades enfermeras, y análisis por paciente y unidad. Resultados: Escala NEMS no muestra diferencias significativas en el cumplimiento (67%). Comparación NEMS-NAS, todos los criterios excepto el 1º, obtienen mejora significativa. NEMS sólo valora el criterio 1 (64,22%), y NAS todos con un cumplimiento para el 1º, 2º y 4º del 64,74%, y el 3º del 100%. Conclusión: La escala NAS es más adecuada para medir cargas de trabajo de enfermería en UCI.

RESUMO Objetivo: determinar qual dos escores avaliados (NEMS e NAS), é o apropriado para as Unidades de Tratamento Intensivo aplicando a metodologia da qualidade. Método: após identificar como uma oportunidade de demonstrar a não adequação do escore NEMS para determinar as cargas de trabalho dos enfermeiros na UTI, aplicou-se a metodologia dos ciclos de melhoria para esse escore e para o NAS como propostas de melhorias, avaliando os critérios: medição da carga horária por dia e por turnos, incluindo todas as atividades de enfermagem e análise por paciente-unidade. Resultados: o escore NEMS não demonstrou diferenças significativas na efetividade (67%). Comparando o NEMS-NAS, todos os critérios, exceto o 1º, obtiveram uma melhora significativa. O NEMS valoriza apenas o critério 1º (64,22%) e o NAS, todos, com efetividade de 64,74% para o 1º, 2º e 4º de e de 100% para o 3º. Conclusão: o escore NAS é o mais apropriado para medir a carga de trabalho de enfermagem na UTI.

ABSTRACT Objective: determine which tool (NEMS and NAS) is most suitable for use in intensive care units using a quality-based methodology. Method: after identifying the opportunity for improvement "Inadequacy of the NEMS for determining nursing workload in the intensive care unit (ICU)", we assessed the NEMS and the NAS, as a proposed improvement to the NEMS, using quality improvement cycles methodology based on the following criteria: measurement of daily nursing workload on a daily and shift basis; the tool encompasses all nursing activities undertaken in the ICU; and workload assessed per patient and unit. Results: there was no significant difference in level of compliance for the NEMS (67%). The comparison NEMS-NAS showed that there was a statistically significant improvement for all criteria except criterion 1. The NEMS only assesses criterion 1 (64.22%); while the NAS assessed all four criteria, obtaining a compliance rate of 64.74% for criteria 1, 2, and 4, and 100% for criterion 3. Conclusion: the NAS is more suitable for measuring nursing workload in UCIs.