PERCEPTION OF PHYSIOTHERAPISTS FROM PUBLIC SERVICES IN A MUNICIPALITY IN SOUTHERN BRAZIL ON THE EFFECTS OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC ON THEIR WORK PROCESS

Abstract

COVID-19 has significantly impacted the lives of the world's population. Because it is a health emergency and considering the high transmissibility and viral mortality, the health professional's work process was considerably affected. Objective: To understand the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the work process of physiotherapists working in Rehabilitation Centers and hospitals in a municipality in southern Brazil. Methodology: Qualitative study with voluntary sample. The first stage consisted of the application of online questionnaires, containing anamnesis; assessment of stress at work (Job Stress Scale) and quality of life at work (QWLQ-bref). The second stage consisted of synchronous interviews carried out via the google meet platform. Results: Response rate of 68.4% of physiotherapists in the city, 50% were below the group median for quality of life and occupational stress. After analyzing the participants' speeches, two categories were organized in view of perceptions about quality of life at work specifically in the period of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Transformations imposed on the work process and Recognition of the importance of work. Conclusion: The impacts of the pandemic on the work process of physiotherapists were clearly identified, reflecting on the quality of life at work and on high levels of stress.