Nurses profile and performance in mental health services network of Goiania-GO

Abstract

This research is part of a multicenter project, based in a descriptive and exploratory approach, developed the mental health services network of Goiania, Goias, Brazil. The aim was to present socio-economic profile and nurses’ education, and to describe how these professionals work in these health services. The data obtained from two different questionnaires was analyzed by simple statistic procedures. The work performed by nurses was grouped into three categories: care, education, and management. It was also identified some jobs developed through partnerships with other professionals, especially the groups activities. Although the nurses’ practice is still directed to the technical care procedures such as medication and vital signs measurement, it was possible to identify some initiatives that meet the new paradigm in mental health care. It is undeniable that these measures are relevant to the professional practice of nurses, but should not override the care in specialized Mental Health services.

Descriptors: Psychiatric Nursing; Mental Health; Human Resources.