Practices for the safe administration of medicines in the hospital context: integrative review

Abstract

Safe medication administration in the hospital setting is a key strategy for preventing adverse events and promoting patient safety. This study aimed to analyze, through an integrative literature review, practices related to safe medication administration in the hospital environment, as well as factors associated with the occurrence of errors and professional strategies aimed at their prevention. This is an integrative review developed through a search for scientific articles in health-related databases, including studies published in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, according to previously defined criteria. The final sample consisted of nine articles, organized and analyzed according to title, journal, authors, study type, and main findings. The results showed that safe medication administration depends on a systemic approach involving process standardization, communication among professionals, reduction of interruptions during medication preparation and administration, continuous staff training, and strengthening of the safety culture. Risk factors were also identified, such as work overload, inadequate environmental conditions, technical failures, weaknesses in interdisciplinary communication, and organizational limitations. The relevance of multiprofessional performance was highlighted, especially nursing and clinical pharmacy, in error prevention and in improving quality of care. It is concluded that safe medication administration requires technical competence, institutional investment, integration among professionals, and adoption of evidence-based practices aimed at reducing harm and improving the quality of hospital care.