PHOTOVOICE: A STRATEGY FOR IDENTIFY NURSE'S SELF-PERCEPTION OF OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE OF MUSCULOSKELETAL RISKS

Abstract

The People's self-concept contributes to their sense of identity, and if associated with methods that promote the involvement of participants, we develop knowledge that promotes causes and social change. Introduction: In recent decades, the scientific community has identified a high prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders in nurses, as a result of work processes, high physical demands, workspaces, and the emotional and sometimes stressful association of clinical contexts. Obstetric nurses, due to their specific work, have been a group that has been little studied and, above all, little involved in research processes. Research Objective: This study aims to identify the self-perception of Obstetric nurses regarding daily activities in the labour context, which are self-perceived as high risk for work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Methodology: A qualitative approach was used, utilising an empowering research method - Photovoice. Twenty  who work full time in the delivery room took part. Photographic records were presented by the Obstetric nurses and their self-perceptions were shared through interviews.  The interviews and photographs were then transcribed, analysed and categorised. Results: The average number of years as a Obstetric nurses was 14.4 years, but with 24.8 years working as a nurse. Twenty-two work activities with a potential risk to health were photographically recorded.