Rev Assoc Med Bras
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To analyze the features of preventable adverse events (AEs) in hospitals inpatient in the State of Rio de Janeiro, in Brazil, in order to identify elements that serve as a substrate for priority actions aimed at improving patient safety. ⋯ The HAI is the major preventable AEs, as observed in other developing countries. Despite the limitations of the study, the characterization of preventable AEs indicates that known and effective actions available to reduce HAI, such as hand hygiene, to prevent pressure ulcers, to encourage adherence to protocol and clinical guidelines and to create continuing education programs for health professionals, should compose the list of priorities of hospital managers and health professionals involved in the care of hospitalized patients.