LIMA, Franici Ferreira de; GONÇALVES, Rosiane Aparecida Silva; FRANCO, Thiago Leonel
Abstract:
Hospital emergency and urgency units require rapid and effective responses to
critical situations. The objective of this study is to analyze the difficulties and
challenges faced by nurses in this hospital sector. This is an integrative
literature review conducted using the SciELO, LILACS, PubMed/Medline,
Nursing Database (BDENF), and Virtual Health Library (VHL) databases, as
well as gray literature, including theses, dissertations, and official documents.
Articles published between 2007 and 2025 in Portuguese, English, and Spanish
were included. The search process yielded 324 publications, of which 27 were
read in full. Finally, nine studies that met the previously established eligibility
criteria were selected. The results revealed recurrent work overload, structural
precariousness, organizational failures, and emotional impacts, such as burnout
and stress among professionals, as well as insecurity for patients. The covid-19
pandemic intensified these problems, making the need for institutional
interventions evident. Coping strategies were also identified, including care
protocols, continuing education, strengthening interprofessional communication,
and psychological support. It is concluded that overcoming the challenges
identified requires structural investments, professional appreciation, and
effective public policies capable of ensuring better working conditions, as well
as safe, humane care aligned with the principles of the Unified Health System
(SUS).
