Segurança do paciente e as infecções relacionadas à assistência à saúde: uma revisão da literatura / Patient safety and health care related infections: a review of the literature

Abstract

Introduction: Nosocomial infections (HIs) are considered a threat to the safety of hospitalized patients, as well as to professionals and others who frequent all healthcare facilities and who may develop actions considered risky for the manifestation of infections. The aim of this study was to describe the impacts that healthcare-associated infections can have on patient care. Material and Methods: This is a literature review, available in virtual databases, Virtual Health Library (VHL), Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciElo) and Pubmed. Studies published between 2015-2020 were included, using the intersection of the terms "hospital infection", "health care" and "patient safety". The inclusion criteria used were scientific articles in Portuguese available in full for free. For the remaining issues, in addition to articles, theses, dissertations, and the site of the Brazilian Ministry of Health (MH) were used. The exclusion criteria were as follows: articles published outside the determined period, in a foreign language, and those that were not available in full or that avoided the theme. Results: Studies point to the relationship between qualification and quality care. The authors mention that there is a significant deficit in continuing education, especially due to the absence of courses, training and qualification. In addition, they mention the importance of preventive actions regarding the provision of care, since these can be a means of disseminating IRAS. Final Considerations: The cases of Healthcare-Related Infections are related to the type and quality of service provided by health professionals to patients, which can have a direct impact on patient safety. However, the control of these healthcare-associated infections should not be seen in isolation, but within the context of ensuring quality care and, consequently, patient safety.