Cargas de trabalho em mulheres catadoras de materiais recicláveis: estudo convergente-assistencial

Abstract

The following study approached the referential of workload according to the Psychodynamic of Work and had as objective of study the workload of women who are collector of recyclable materials. Still, the questions of research and practice were established, respectively: What are the perception of women who are collector of recyclable materials about the present workload in their work process? What actions of nursing can be performed within the women who are collector related to the workload? This study had as general objective establish actions of nursing within these collectors of recyclable materials related to the workload through an educative practice. This research has a qualitative approach and also uses a Convergent-Assistant method. The scenario was a company of grooming of recyclable materials localized in a town in the countryside of the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Women who are collector of recyclable materials were the participants of the study, who were also entailed to this institution. All employees were included in the study, which totalized 11 participants. Data was produced through unsystematic participant observation technique, semi structured interviews and convergence groups. For data analysis, the steps proposed by the referential of Convergent-Assistant Research were followed. The research proceeded the trajectory proposed by the methodological referential: Phases of Conception; Instrumentation; Theorization; Transference and Analysis. Data showed that the physical workload are mainly relate to noise, weight, repetitive movements, rain and humidity, sensation of fug and heat, chemical and biological agents. In addition, they suffer influences of overload and alternation of activities, further operational problems and work organization. Regarding the cognitive and psychological loads, factors that minimize the work effects are highlighted, which are represented by experiences of work satisfaction. On the other hand, there are factors that act as aggravator, which are represented by dissatisfaction (interpersonal relationships were the main element). The cognitive and psychological loads have been also related to life trajectories traced by vulnerability and issues relative to feminine work. Still, these loads have been associated to sleeping problems, affliction and prejudice on their familiar life. Some aggravators were observed, which had origin in the workload, such as pain, respiratory problems and work accidents. The convergence with the practice was made through educative actions, which focus were on: nursing guidance on coping strategies and self-care towards workload; strengthening of team work; and discussion on empowerment. It was possible to conclude that workload is related to more embracing aspects than the most part of studies on Psychodynamic of Work show. Studies and actions on nursing are fundamental, representing the Convergent-Assistant Research as an effective tool for it.