Working in the COVID-19 pandemic: coping strategies and repercussions among health professionals

Abstract

This study aimed to develop a theoretical model about frontline care work during the COVID-19 pandemic, considering the ways of coping and the repercussions on the health of the professionals involved. This is a qualitative research with a methodological reference of Grounded Theory in the structuralist approach of Strauss and Corbin, carried out in a university hospital. With theoretical sampling of the population and formation of two sample groups, 24 professionals participated, including nurses, physiotherapists, doctors and nursing technicians. Data collection was carried out with in-depth interviews. Data analysis occurred through open, axial and selective coding, using the Atlas Ti 22.0 software. The results achieved made it possible to elucidate the theoretical model with the central category ‘Working on the care frontline in the COVID-19 pandemic’, supported by five categories, according to the paradigmatic circumstances of the conditions; action/interaction; and the consequences. The theoretical model developed may contribute to the planning and development of institutional strategies for coping with critical periods, characterized by increased demand for health services, the presence of a highly transmissible etiological agent and, mainly, impact on the health of professionals, with suffering and illnesses among those involved in the care front line.