Management of the nursing workforce during the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil: A documentary study

Abstract

Workforce management supports the organization of health services, especially during public health crises. This study aimed to identify guidelines for workforce management in healthcare, specifically nursing, during the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil. The documentary research followed the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research (SRQR) guidelines from the EQUATOR Network to enhance the transparency of qualitative research aspects, covering the period from January 2020 to May 2023. The documentary analysis included the location, identification, and evaluation of relevant documents obtained from online platforms such as the National Health Council, the National Council of Health Secretaries, the National Council of Municipal Health Secretaries, and the Federal Nursing Council. A total of 25 documents were analyzed, revealing three main categories: actions for combating the pandemic, institutional roles in addressing the crisis, and the situation of nursing workers. Finally, it is considered that the pandemic required rapid adaptation of management policies and practices, highlighting the importance of continuous training and psychological support for healthcare professionals. Additionally, the analyzed guidelines emphasize the need for coordination between different levels of government and the use of emerging technologies to strengthen responses to health crises.