Fatiga mental y funciones cognitivas en linieros de líneas energizadas del sector eléctrico. Aragua, 2024

Abstract

Introduction: The proper physical and mental health of operational personnel working in the electric sector is essential to prevent workplace accidents. The study aimed to analyze the relationship between mental fatigue and cognitive functions in linemen of energized lines from electric service companies in Aragua. Methodology: Based on a documentary review of mental fatigue and cognitive functions, under the positivist paradigm, quantitative approach, non-experimental, descriptive, field design, and cross-sectional cut, with a census sample of twelve workers assigned to the specialized maintenance departments of electric service companies, taking as a criterion being linemen of energized lines. The techniques applied included observation, photographic record, sociodemographic survey, the Montreal Cognitive Assessment Test version 8.1 (MoCA), and the Subjective Fatigue Patterns Test (PSF). To evaluate the relationship between variables, the Pearson correlation coefficient was used. Results: It was found that 67% of the workers exhibited symptoms of fatigue, and 42% showed possible mild cognitive decline. This indicates a low inverse correlation, meaning that greater fatigue corresponds to lower performance in cognitive functions. Conclusions: Statistically, the observed relationship is moderately low and not significant. Future research is suggested to increase the sample size and consider additional variables such as age, academic level, and experience, as well as the analysis of specific variables from the MoCA Test. It is recommended that electric service companies implement neuropsychological evaluations, neuroprotection programs, and continuous training for personnel.