CHARACTERIZATION OF ADVERSE HOSPITAL EVENTS: ACTIVE SEARCH VERSUS SPONTANEOUS REPORTING

ABSTRACT

Objective:  to comparatively characterize adverse events reported spontaneously and through active search.

Method:  Evaluation documentary cross-sectional study aimed to track cases that occurred from July 1 to December 31, 2019, in critically ill patients, using the methodology of the Canadian Adverse Events Study. For data analysis, McNemar’s non-parametric test was used to calculate prevalence rates of adverse events.

Results:  There was a predominance of cases of pressure ulcer, lung sepsis and unplanned removal of feeding tubes. Regarding preventability and severity, adverse events are more severe and less avoidable in spontaneous reporting, inferring underestimation in the reporting of low-severity and highly avoidable events.

Conclusion:  Characterization of adverse events in critically ill patients makes it possible to implement strategies to promote a safety culture.

DESCRIPTORS: Patient Safety; Medical Errors; Epidemiological Monitoring; Intensive Care Units; Reporting.