LEAN HEALTHCARE AND QUALITY MANAGEMENT IN EMERGENCY CARE UNITS: STRATEGIES FOR OPTIMIZING CARE FLOW, REDUCING LENGTH OF STAY AND IMPROVING PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Lean Healthcare is a management methodology focused on eliminating waste, optimizing work processes, and continuously improving the quality of healthcare services. In Emergency Care Units (ECUs), characterized by high demand for care and the need for rapid responses, the application of Lean principles has stood out as a strategy to improve operational efficiency and care outcomes. This study aimed to analyze the scientific evidence on the use of Lean Healthcare associated with quality management in emergency services, focusing on optimizing the care flow, reducing patient length of stay, and improving performance indicators. This is an integrative literature review conducted in national and international databases, considering publications between 2020 and 2025. The results showed that the implementation of tools such as Value Stream Mapping, Visual Management, Kaizen, 5S, and process standardization contributes to reducing operational bottlenecks, decreasing waiting times, increasing team productivity, and strengthening patient safety. In conclusion, the integration of Lean Healthcare and quality management represents an effective strategy for improving emergency services, promoting greater organizational efficiency and better healthcare outcomes.