IMPLEMENTATION OF AN INTENSIVE CARE UNIT (ICU) DURING THE CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC IN A PUBLIC HEALTH UNIT: AN EXPERIENCE REPORT

Abstract

Objective: To describe the experience of a nurse in the implementation of an intensive care unit during the Coronavívus pandemic and the strategies used in the organization of the unit and the nursing team in the face of the difficulties imposed by the scenario experienced. Methodology: This is an experience report of nurses involved in the creation of a unit focused on the treatment of critically ill patients affected by COVID-19, at the height of the Coronavirus pandemic in Brazil. The study took place in two stages: in the first stage, a literature review was carried out and in the second stage, the description of the organization of the service, training of flows and established routines. Results: The physical space, routines in the service for intensive care of patients with COVID-19 were organized, and the nursing team was managed in terms of training, dimensioning, and emotional support for professionals.  The difficulties and challenges encountered in terms of human, material and structural resources were described. Conclusions: Progress was made in the organization of care and training of professionals, as well as efficiency in the adequacy of the service in the face of constant changes. The obstacles experienced in coping with COVID-19 required a critical look from nurses, skills and competencies to establish new strategies to minimize losses in established processes and the spread of the new coronavirus.