Health problems reported by nursing workers in a public hospital of Bahia

Although the work is essential to human life, the context in which it is done can induct tension, imbalance and consequent illness. Studies indicate nursing as an occupation with high risk for disease, particularly in the hospital environment. The aim of this study was to estimate the occurrence of health problems reported by nursing staff in a hospital in Bahia, Brazil. This is a cross-sectional study, involving 309 nursing professionals. The most frequent health complaints were related to musculoskeletal symptoms such as leg pain 66.4% (192) and back pain 61.8% (178); and to mental health with a predominance of mental fatigue 47% (131) 33 and nervousness 7% (93). The results show that nurses had a higher frequency of postural problems and mental health complaints while respiratory diseases complaints were more prevalent among technicians and assistants. These results highlight the need for greater awareness of the work process and implementation of preventive activities.