QUALITY MANAGEMENT IN PRE-HOSPITAL CARE: SAFETY AND ASSISTANCE IN THE GROUND TRANSPORT OF NEWBORNS IN INCUBATORS

Abstract

Introduction: Ground transportation of newborns in incubators constitutes a complex healthcare process that requires continuity of intensive care, involving clinical stabilization, continuous monitoring, maintenance of thermoregulation, and safe operational organization. From the perspective of quality management, this transfer goes beyond the logistical dimension and becomes part of strategies aimed at neonatal patient safety. Objective: To analyze, in the scientific literature, the main factors related to quality management in pre-hospital care during the ground transportation of newborns in incubators, identifying practices capable of promoting safety, efficiency, and continuity of care. Methodology: This is an integrative literature review conducted between January and February 2026 in the PubMed and CAPES Periodicals Portal databases, using DeCS/MeSH descriptors and previously established inclusion and exclusion criteria. A total of 1,567 studies were identified, and the most relevant were selected to compose the final synthesis. Results and discussion: The findings showed that quality management in neonatal transport depends on factors such as prior stabilization, rigorous thermal control, professional qualification, structural organization of the ambulance, availability of adequate equipment, effective communication between services, and the use of standardized protocols. These elements proved essential for reducing risks, adverse events, and complications during transport. However, a scarcity of studies specifically addressing the topic was observed. Conclusion: The review demonstrated that quality management in pre-hospital care during ground transportation of newborns in incubators is essential for clinical stability, neonatal safety, and continuity of care, reinforcing the need for investments in protocols, professional training, and continuous improvement of services.