Repercussions of COVID-19 on the work of primary health care nurses in Northeastern of Brazil

Abstract

The objective was to describe the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic on the work of Primary Health Care nurses in northeastern Brazil. Descriptive, exploratory research with a qualitative approach, carried out in a northeastern capital, through semi-structured interviews conducted virtually with 15 nurses from November 2020 to May 2021. The data content analysis was thematically categorical. Nine dimensions emerged that portray the repercussions on nurses' work. The results show that although positive repercussions of the work of PHC nurses during the pandemic are recognized, negative implications stand out, such as the significant reduction in services provided and consequently discontinuity of care and changes in the work process. In addition, it raised stressors for the health of workers. It is concluded that the repercussions point to the need for financial, training, human and material investments, with a view to strengthening PHC, the nurses' work process and the health conditions of the people they serve.