HOSPITAL GENERALISTA E A ATUAÇÃO DO PSICÓLOGO: Percepção da equipe de enfermagem

This study explores the perception of healthcare professionals, highlighting the importance of the hospital psychologist in providing emotional support and coping strategies in the hospital setting. Variations in the understanding of the psychologist's role were observed, with possible underestimations by some professionals. In different sectors, such as an Emergency Care Unit and Intensive Care Units, the presence or absence of the hospital psychologist influences the emotional and psychological approach to patients. The research aimed to assess the perception and functionality of the psychologist in a newly established hospital, recognizing challenges and indirect impacts on patient adaptation. Ninety-four nursing professionals from different hospital sectors participated, with data collection conducted by psychology students using open-ended questions to explore how the psychologist's role is perceived. The data were analyzed through descriptive statistics, descending hierarchical classification (CHD), and similarity analysis (AS) using the Iramuteq® software. The team recognized the psychologist's role, particularly in managing intense emotional reactions related to hospitalization, but confusion regarding their responsibilities in relation to social services was evident. This confusion weakens professional performance due to inappropriate requests and underreporting of psychological demands. Regardless of professional experience, nursing professionals demonstrated difficulty in recognizing opportunities for health promotion, which may be related to their perception of the psychologist's role. The hospital’s generalist nature and insufficient multidisciplinary staff to meet demand further reinforce misunderstandings about the psychologist’s function. Continuous education strategies within the hospital community are necessary to ensure better patient care and provide clarity on the psychologist’s role in a multidisciplinary team.