PATIENT SAFETY AND BLOODSTREAM INFECTION PREVENTION MEASURES

Abstract

Bloodstream infection occurs when bacteria or other germs penetrate the bloodstream through colonization of catheters. In this context, patient safety determines good health care practices, prevention and reduction of incidents. Thus, the objective of this study was to highlight patient safety and bloodstream infection prevention measures, highlighting the role of nursing in promoting care and team education. This is a narrative literature review, based on articles published in full, in the SciELO, BDENF, LILACS databases, between 2019 and 2024, in English, Portuguese and Spanish. Bloodstream infection occurs when bacteria or other germs enter the bloodstream through colonization of catheters. Such an infection can be considered an adverse event, which is an unwanted problem that can arise during medical treatments, causing severe damage or even death. Notifying these events is essential, as it helps to identify areas that need improvement, contributing to safe patient care. Reducing hospital infections brings clinical benefits and significant financial impacts, demonstrating that investing in patient safety is an ethical and economic imperative.