FACTORS THAT CAN COMPROMISE THE QUALITY OF NURSING CARE IN RISK CLASSIFICATION

Abstract

Introduction: The Risk Classification (RC) is an extremely important service within the Unified Health System (the SUS - abbreviation for  "Sistema Único de Saúde" in Portuguese) as a strategy to prioritize care in urgent and emergency situations. Replacing traditional triage, RC aims to humanize and enhance patient care. However, challenges such as overcrowding, lack of resources, and professional unpreparedness compromise its effectiveness. Objective: To analyze, through an integrative literature review, the factors that compromise the quality of nursing services in the Risk Classification care in urgent and emergency units. Methodology: This is an integrative review developed from searches in national and international scientific databases, using descriptors related to risk classification, urgency and emergency, quality of care, and the Manchester Triage System. Articles published between 2012 and 2024 were included, available in full text, and directly related to the factors that interfere with risk classification. Analysis and Discussion of Results: Studies indicate structural failures, work overload, and lack of knowledge of protocols, compromising the quality and humanization of care. The Manchester System shows moderate to substantial reliability but depends on the nurse's experience and the correct choice of discriminators. For effectiveness, structural improvements, continuous training, and strengthening of Primary Care are necessary, ensuring equity and efficiency in emergency care. Conclusion: The Risk Classification in SUS faces structural fragilities, lack of supplies, and scarcity of qualified professionals, resulting in overcrowding and delays in care. It is suggested to update protocols, implement informatics, and provide continuous training to optimize the process and humanize care. The improvement of RC requires collective effort with investments, community participation, and further studies to ensure safe and efficient care.