ENFERMAGEM FRENTE À DETECÇÃO PRECOCE DA SEPSE NA UNIDADE DE TERAPIA INTENSIVA

Abstract

It is understood that sepsis is an increasingly common condition in hospital settings, especially in intensive care units (ICUs), becoming a relevant public health problem. The disease is associated with a significant increase in hospital deaths and high financial costs, mainly due to the prolonged hospitalization time required to treat serious complications. Objective: To understand the role of nursing in the prevention of bloodstream sepsis in patients admitted to ICUs. Specific objectives include describing the pathophysiology of sepsis and its systemic changes, identifying risk factors in ICUs and minimizing patient exposure to them, in addition to highlighting the benefits of this action for patients and family members. Method: The research was structured using the PICO strategy to formulate the question, where P corresponds to hospitalized patients, I to nursing practices aimed at preventing sepsis, C to compare the applicability of standardized practices, and O to the clinical outcome of patients. Results: The search for studies that corresponded to the research problem resulted in the selection of 9 studies, making it possible to identify the preexisting risk factors for the occurrence of sepsis in patients admitted to Adult Intensive Care Units. The main results were the criticality of the patient's condition together with their previous comorbidities, thus increasing the predisposition to sepsis; the use of invasive devices and mechanical ventilation favor the entry of infectious agents into the body; immunosuppressants, especially in cancer patients, which contribute to the increased risk of systemic infection; the indiscriminate use of antibiotics resulting in cases of bacterial resistance, which is a challenge in the management of sepsis in the ICU; and prolonged hospitalization exposing the patient to the risk of acquiring new infections. Final Considerations: considering the relevance of preventive practices applied by nurses, such as hand hygiene, adequate manipulation of catheters, and correct administration of medications, as essential in the prevention of sepsis.