Repercussions experienced by health professionals working with Integrative and Complementary Practices during the pandemic

Abstract

Objective: to analyze the repercussions experienced by health professionals who were assisted with the use of integrative and complementary practices during the pandemic of COVID-19. Methods: qualitative study whose data were collected through interviews, which were transcribed and submitted to thematic content analysis. Results: 12 female health professionals participated and pointed out the importance of the inclusion of integrative and complementary practices in strengthening the well-being of health professionals in the Unified Health System and the relevance of offering these services in the pandemic scenario, as it helped them face stress, insomnia, mental fatigue, and anxiety. Two categories emerged: Sensation of valorization, welcoming, recognition and care, and Repercussions on the emotional and physical health of the workers. Conclusion: the data showed the positive repercussions of Integrative and Complementary Practices developed by health professionals, demonstrating the potentiality of these practices in promoting mental health. Contributions to practice: the implementation of actions with the use of Integrative and Complementary Practices by managers constitutes a form of care by health professionals in the Unified Health System, as these result in quality of life, promotion, and restoration of physical and mental health of the individuals assisted.