PATIENT SAFETY IN THE INTENSIVE CARE UNIT: NURSING TEAM STRATEGIES FOR REDUCING HEALTHCARE RISKS

Abstract

Patient safety is one of the main pillars of healthcare quality, especially in Intensive Care Units, where patients are in critical condition and subjected to multiple interventions and complex technologies, increasing the risk of adverse events. In this context, it is essential to understand the strategies that contribute to reducing healthcare risks in this environment. This study aimed to analyze nursing strategies focused on patient safety in Intensive Care Units, with an emphasis on reducing healthcare risks. This is a narrative literature review with a qualitative approach, conducted through searches in the SciELO, PubMed, and Virtual Health Library databases, using descriptors related to the topic combined with Boolean operators. Articles published in the last five years, available in full, and addressing the role of nursing in patient safety in intensive care were included. The results showed that the main healthcare risks are related to medication errors, infections, pressure injuries, communication failures, and complications associated with invasive devices. The most effective strategies include the adoption of care protocols, effective communication, professional training, hand hygiene, and systematization of care. It is concluded that the nursing team plays a fundamental role in promoting patient safety, and the integration of care practices, work organization, and strengthening of the safety culture is essential to reduce adverse events and improve the quality of care.