PRESCRIPTION ERRORS IN BRAZILIAN HOSPITALS AND THE IMPORTANCE OF THE PHARMACIST IN PATIENT CARE: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Medical prescriptions are an essential tool for achieving success in prescribed pharmacological treatment, and can directly interfere with the rational use of medications. Prescription errors correspond to a greater amount of medication, regarding medication and information about the patient and the prescribing physician, potentially generating negative consequences for users. Given this scenario, the present study aimed to analyze prescription errors in hospital institutions in Brazil, identifying the main types of errors, their causes, and prevention strategies. This was a qualitative study with a descriptive and exploratory approach. Data collection was carried out through research in electronic scientific databases such as: SciELO (Scientific Electronic Library Online), LILACS (Latin American and Caribbean Literature in Health Sciences), and PubMed/MEDLINE. The inclusion criteria focused on articles published in Portuguese, English, or Spanish between 2020 and 2025. The results showed that preventing medication errors depends on the integration of technical knowledge, safety technologies, efficient management, and qualified multidisciplinary action. Strengthening pharmaceutical care and patient safety policies is an important tool to ensure higher quality healthcare. Therefore, investing in preventive strategies, continuing education, and continuous monitoring of care processes is fundamental to reducing risks, promoting therapeutic safety, and ensuring more effective, ethical, and humane patient care.