THE IMPORTANCE OF EPIDEMIOLOGICAL SURVEILLANCE IN THE CONTEXT OF EMERGENCY CARE UNITS

Abstract

Epidemiological Surveillance is an essential component of public health, especially in Emergency Care Units (UPAs), where the demand for rapid and effective responses is constant. This study aimed to investigate the contributions of Epidemiological Surveillance to the detection, monitoring, and response to public health problems in the context of Emergency Care Units. An integrative literature review was carried out, based on the PRISMA method guidelines, with searches conducted in PubMed, LILACS, and the Virtual Health Library (VHL) databases. Articles published between 2020 and 2025 that specifically addressed the role of epidemiological surveillance in emergency and urgent care services were selected. After screening and analysis, nine studies composed the final sample. The results showed that the presence of Epidemiological Surveillance Units within emergency services strengthens compulsory reporting systems, enhances the capacity for rapid response to emerging diseases, and promotes integration between healthcare and health management. The relevance of technological tools and integrated information systems for real-time monitoring and planning of preventive actions was also highlighted. However, challenges remain, such as underreporting, lack of trained professionals, and weaknesses in coordination between management levels. It is concluded that strengthening Epidemiological Surveillance in Emergency Care Units is essential to improve the efficiency of the Unified Health System, contributing to disease control, better quality of care, and population safety in the face of health emergencies.