IMPLEMENTATION OF THE INSTITUTIONAL SEPSIS PROTOCOL: A STRATEGY FOR IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF CARE IN THE ADULT ICU
Sepsis; Clinical Protocols; Patient Safety; Quality of Health Care; Intensive Care Unit; Quality Improvement.
Introduction: Sepsis is one of the leading causes of mortality in intensive care units (ICUs), requiring rapid and standardized clinical responses to reduce adverse outcomes and ensure greater patient safety. In this context, the implementation of institutional protocols has been recognized as a key strategy for improving the quality of care and promoting evidence-based clinical decision-making. Objective: The aim of this study is to implement the institutional sepsis protocol in the adult ICU of the Dirceu Arcoverde State Hospital (HEDA) in Parnaíba, Piauí, with a focus on organizing care pathways and monitoring adherence to recommended practices. Methodology: This is an interventional quality improvement study with a quantitative approach and prospective monitoring of the protocol implementation stages. The intervention includes adapting the protocol to the unit’s specific context, training the multidisciplinary team, developing support tools, and systematically monitoring care indicators related to the initial management of sepsis. Data will be obtained through institutional monitoring spreadsheets and records of protocol adherence, analyzed using descriptive statistics, presented as absolute numbers and adherence rates. Results: It is expected that the implementation of the protocol will contribute to greater standardization of clinical practices, strengthen the culture of patient safety, and improve indicators related to sepsis management in the unit.