THE Importance of Patient Safety in the Emergency Care Unit

Abstract

Introduction: Safety in healthcare is a frequently debated topic both in Brazil and worldwide, especially in relation to hospital care. The main topics discussed about patient safety include: medication errors, infections associated with care, falls, pressure injuries, identification errors and diagnostic errors. Objective: To describe, through a literature review, the importance of patient safety in emergency care units. Method: This is a literature review. Legislation, technical standards and recently published scientific articles were analyzed. Results: The findings indicate that most adverse events are preventable through standardized care protocols, ongoing training and strengthening of the institutional safety culture. The strategic role of the nursing team in this process is highlighted, emphasizing the importance of joint action between professionals and managers to ensure safe, ethical and humanized care. Conclusion: Patient safety in an emergency care unit is essential to ensure fast, effective and risk-free care, preserving lives and promoting quality care. Keywords: Patient safety. Emergency Care Unit. Adverse events. Nursing. Quality of care.