Healthcare-associated infections: professionals risk perceptions in a hospital institution

This study is a qualitative descriptive research that aimed to identify the professionals risk perception working in health services in relation to Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAI). Thirty-one professionals working in a hospital in the State of Santa Catarina were interviewed. The interviews were recorded, transcribed and the data were subjected to content analysis according to Bardin, which resulted in the category "Health Services Risks". Improper cleaning of the environment was an important risk indicated by professionals, which shows relevant knowledge about the possible reservoirs of disease-causing microorganisms. However, it was possible to recognize that the professionals risk perception is more focused on occupational risk that the work environment can offer than the risk that users are susceptible when using the services if the professional practices are not properly executed.