THE CONTRIBUTION OF NURSING TO THE SAFETY OF PEDIATRIC PATIENTS IN MEDICATION ADMINISTRATION

Abstract

Pediatric patient safety in medication administration demands qualified nursing care due to the complexity of childcare and the risks of medication errors. Factors such as individualized calculations, professional overload, and communication failures increase children's vulnerability. In this context, care protocols, continuing education, and clinical surveillance are fundamental for preventing adverse events, strengthening safe practices, and improving the care provided to pediatric patients. This study aims to analyze the contribution of nursing to pediatric safety, identifying ethical aspects, professional challenges, and outcomes related to medication errors. This is a qualitative integrative review on pediatric medication safety, with studies published between 2021 and 2025, using the PICo strategy, the PRISMA protocol, and scientific evidence related to the prevention of medication errors. The ethical, legal, and care aspects of nursing in pediatric medication administration involve professional responsibility, medication safety, and error prevention. Challenges such as work overload, communication failures, and insufficient training directly influence the quality of care provided. Furthermore, medication errors can cause adverse reactions, poisoning, increased hospital stays, and emotional impacts on children and their families. Therefore, safety protocols, ongoing education, and humanized practices become fundamental for strengthening safe and qualified pediatric care. In conclusion, nursing plays a fundamental role in pediatric medication safety, making continuous training, care protocols, and humanized practices indispensable. In addition, error prevention and professional development contribute to risk reduction, strengthening safe care, and improving the quality of care provided to children in health services.