ABSTRACT
The aim of this study was to review the scientific literature on burnout syndrome among intensive care unit nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic. This narrative review considered publications on the current pandemic, as well as studies on worker health and burnout, focusing on intensive care unit nurses. The literature was organized into two thematic categories: (1) emotional distress in the daily work of intensive care unit nurses; (2) preventing burnout in these professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although the literature on burnout is expressive, there is a need to transmit data produced during the pandemic and follow these professionals longitudinally, which could lead to the development of specific prevention and health promotion strategies. Changes in the emotional and working conditions of these professionals must become a permanent part of worker health research and practice, rather than a temporary measure during the pandemic.
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: To reflect on the role of Brazilian nursing during the COVID-19 pandemic, considering as a historical landmark the bicentenary of the birth of Florence Nightingale, a precursor of modern nursing, celebrated in 2020. METHOD: Theoretical-reflective study, based on Florence Nightingale's environmental theory through a literature review, carried out in international and national virtual news from different sources and added to the authors' experiences related to the pandemic. RESULTS: It was possible to identify the weaknesses experienced by nurse practitioners as to contagion by COVID-19, the routine of exposure to risks, the lack of adequate protection in many scenarios, the high rates of illness, and also deaths that occurred in this profession. FINAL CONSIDERATIONS: Florence Nightingale's Environmental Theory describes the importance of the adequacy of the work environment. It also emphasizes the value of this professional for contemporary nursing and the redefinition of this professional category during the COVID-19 pandemic.