Objective: to know how happens the nurse use of selfbody in the emergency room. Methods: qualitative study, performed with 23 nurses in an adult emergency room at a university hospital in the South of Brazil. The data gathering was through documental research, systematic observation, and semi-structured interview. According to the thematic modality, the data analysis was carried out anchored in the theoretical reference of ergology. Results: it was evidenced the use of selfbody in the work of the nurse, as much in the development of managerial activities as assistance, especially: in the organization of the environment, in the performance in intercurrences and definition of priorities of attendance, as well as in the conduction of the activities of each work shift, together with the nursing and multi-professional team. Final considerations: the nurse makes use of selfbody at work in the emergency room, based on values, knowledge, and experience, considering the organization of the work process and better nursing assistance.