Perfil sociodemográfico e psicológico dos pacientes do serviço de emergência de um hospital da cidade do Rio de Janeiro

The current study aimed to assess the sociodemographic and psychological profile of the emergency service user of a hospital in the city of Rio de Janeiro. A total of 901 users (57.4% women) aged 18–97 years (M = 43.26; SD = 15.63) attended the study from December 2013 to May 2015. Participants were invited to complete a questionnaire composed of the following instruments: Positivity Scale (EP); Inventory of Mental Health (MHI-5); and Patient Information Questionnaire. Data collection was performed in the emergency service facilities by trainees of PET-Health Program. The results indicated that patients with higher rates of positivity and mental health showed lower levels of suffering associated with hospitalization, including pain, stress and sadness/depression. Younger patients showed higher levels of pain and stress at the time they were in the hospital, as well as lower levels of positivity and mental health. Female participants had lower rates of mental health and higher levels of stress and sadness/depression at the time the survey. The data collected for this research enabled to know the reality and the impact of disease and hospitalization on the users of this service. Lastly, it is pointed out the importance of a humanized hospital space, allowing users to feel welcomed and cared for in their physical and psychological needs. Keywords: health psychology, hospital psychology, emergency service, user characterization.