Higienização das mãos e a segurança do paciente: análise das práticas realizadas pela equipe de enfermagem no cuidado a criança hospitalizada.

Abstract

In the current scenario of health services, there has been an increasing search for the provision of error-free care that offers minimal risk to patients, using strategies and practices that are sometimes simplistic in the eyes of professionals, but has proven effectiveness in promoting Patient Safety. Although they are indispensable tools for health professionals, the hands, when not properly sanitized, are considered a source and a vehicle of contamination for patients. In this sense, Hand Hygiene presents itself as an important strategy for the prevention of Health Care Related Infections, since it facilitates the interruption of the chain of transmission, representing one of the pillars for a safe assistance. The on-screen study aimed to analyze the PS in the care of hospitalized children from the accomplishment of practices related to Hand Hygiene performed by the nursing team in a University Hospital. This is an exploratory, descriptive study of a quantitative and qualitative approach, developed with the nursing team active at the Health and Adolescent Care Unit of a University Hospital, Cajazeiras, Paraíba, Brazil. The collection of the data was done through the application of two instruments: a direct and non-participant observation script, in which 15 observations were obtained, and the application of a complementary questionnaire, of which 19 professionals participated. It was verified that the professionals recognize the importance of the practice of Hand Hygiene for the Patient Safety, with respect to the prevention of infections, however, it was evidenced gaps regarding the opportune moments for the hygiene, as well as in the execution of the proper technique. It was observed the predominance of Hand Hygiene with water and soap, to the detriment of hygiene with alcoholic preparations. Concerning the use of adornments, it was verified that most of the professionals used them, and that they did not remove them to perform the Hand Hygiene, as recommended in the protocol of the institution. Even with the non conformities observed, positive aspects were verified, such as the good infrastructure that the hospital has for adequate Hand Hygiene, such as access to water, soap and alcoholic preparations. In this sense, the results indicate that it is necessary to carry out permanent education practices for sensitization and greater professional appropriation regarding this subject, as well as the monitoring of managers concerning the adherence to this practice.