Desenvolvimento de uma interface tecnológica para o rastreio do risco de broncoaspiração no ambiente hospitalar

Abstract

Introduction: Bronchoaspiration is a serious complication, frequently associated with dysphagia, and is characterized by high morbidity and mortality, especially in elderly and hospitalized patients. In addition to compromising patient safety, it is related to increased hospital costs and prolonged length of stay, which highlights the importance of early identification. Although screening instruments exist, methodological heterogeneity and lack of standardization in the detection of specific clinical predictors of bronchoaspiration are observed. In this context, the use of digital technologies and artificial intelligence emerges as a promising strategy to improve screening, allowing greater accuracy and agility in the prevention of this adverse outcome. Objective: To build an instrument with an accessible technological interface for screening the risk of bronchoaspiration in a hospital setting, a technological product in healthcare. Methods: The study followed a descriptive and exploratory methodology, based on Design Thinking, applied iteratively in the stages of problem awareness, ideation, and prototyping.The initial phase included a systematic review and the use of an empathy map to identify user needs. During the ideation phase, the interface proposal was developed, defining materials, technologies, and requirements, guided by the 4+1 architecture. Finally, prototyping was carried out to validate the solution. Results: The systematic review identified screening instruments for bronchoaspiration risk in adults, including checklists associated with functional swallowing tests, water swallowing tests, cough test, EAT-10 questionnaire, accelerometry, voice analysis, and the modified Blue Dye Test, evidencing methodological heterogeneity and lack of standardization. To address this gap, a technological interface was developed in the form of a responsive web-based software (Python/Django, PostgreSQL database), structured with a checklist of eight clinical risk criteria (respiratory support, level of consciousness, alternative feeding route, cough, saliva/secretions, voice, orofacial movements, and speech); in addition to a functional swallowing test, preventive recommendations, and suggestions for food consistency. Conclusion: The study resulted in the creation of a functional prototype to support the screening of bronchoaspiration risk in hospital settings, providing healthcare professionals with a standardized, evidence-based, and technologically accessible tool.