Interruptions and their effects on the dynamics of the nursing work

To investigate the nurses' perception about interruptions during the workflow and their implications on the professional practice environment.

A survey was conducted with 133 nurses in a school hospital in the state of São Paulo from October 2015 to March 2016, through the use of a self-administered questionnaire. For data analysis, Chi-square and Fischer tests have been used.

Most of the nurses have reported frequent and recurring interruptions during their work activities. The interruptive processes are more frequent during the documentation process (n=118; 91.5%) and guidance to the patient/family (n=58; 45%). They are caused by the ringing of the phone (n=114; 87%), and by problem solving in the unit (n=107; 81.7%).

According to the nurses' opinion, the interruptive processes have repercussions on the working dynamics, on the caring process and on the patient's safety.