Hospital pharmacovigilance: the importance of monitoring adverse drug reactions

Abstract

Hospital Introduction: Hospital pharmacovigilance is considered strategic in promoting patient safety. Adherence to its practice is essential, as it contributes to the prevention of risks associated with medication use, especially in complex healthcare settings such as hospitals. Objectives: This study aimed to analyze the importance of pharmacovigilance through the monitoring of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) in the hospital context, identifying factors associated with their occurrence, challenges related to their reporting, and preventive strategies described in the scientific literature. Methods: This is an integrative literature review conducted using scientific databases, including Google Scholar, SciELO, and LILACS, covering studies published between 2022 and 2026. The research question was structured based on the PICO strategy (Population, Intervention, Comparison, and Outcome). A total of 80 references were identified, of which 12 studies were selected according to previously established inclusion and exclusion criteria. The selected studies analyzed hospital pharmacovigilance under different methodological designs, addressing ADR monitoring, underreporting, multiprofessional performance, and reporting processes. Results: A growing scientific concern regarding patient safety and ADR monitoring in hospital settings was observed. In 5 studies (41.7%), the strategic role of the clinical pharmacist within the multiprofessional team was highlighted, contributing to prescription review and reduction of medication errors. Underreporting was identified as a relevant challenge in 3 studies (25.0%), associated with lack of training, operational limitations, and the complexity of reporting systems. Active monitoring methods demonstrated greater efficiency in identifying ADRs in 2 studies (16.7%), revealing events not recorded in traditional systems. Additionally, 3 studies (25.0%) identified failures in the medication-use process as important factors related to the occurrence of adverse events. Conclusion: Hospital pharmacovigilance plays an essential role in the early identification of risks, prevention of harm, and strengthening of the patient safety culture. The implementation of integrated institutional strategies, continuous team training, and the expansion of active monitoring methods are necessary to improve medication-use safety.