Depressive Symptoms in Nursing Professionals in the Hospital Environment at the Beginning of the Pandemic

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the presence of depressive symptoms in nursing professionals working in the hospital environment at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Considering the high propensity of this category to mental illnesses, factors such as long working hours, workload, and dual employment were analyzed. Data were collected using a sociodemographic questionnaire and the Baptista Depression Scale (EBADEP-A). The sample consisted of 142 professionals, predominantly women (94.37%), with an average age of 32 years (SD = 9.63). Among the participants, 42.2% presented some level of depression: 17.6% with mild symptoms, 20.4% moderate, and 4.2% severe. The results indicated significantly higher levels of depression compared to studies conducted before the pandemic. Additionally, working in private institutions was associated with a lower risk of developing depressive symptoms.