[The occurrence of work accidents at an intensive care unit].

This descriptive study identified the work accidents that occurred among nursing staff working at an intensive care unit and correlated the accidents with the procedure being executed by the worker at the time of the accident. Data were collected through individual interviews realized with 68 workers during 2001. It was verified that the accidents were primarily due to contact of blood and secretions with skin and mucosa, injuries due to perforating objects, falls and vertebral column lesions. The accidents were related to orotracheal tube aspiration, handling of excreta/secretions, preparation of medication, blood collection, wet floor and patient transport. It was concluded that changes in the work environment and prevention programs are needed to reduce accidents during patient care procedures.