USE OF SUSTAINABLE TECHNOLOGIES IN THE STERILIZATION CENTER: IMPACTS ON NURSING PRACTICE AND ENVIRONMENTAL PRESERVATION

Abstract

Objective: To understand how the use of sustainable technologies in the Sterilized Material Center (CME) can impact nursing practice and environmental preservation in the hospital environment. Method: This is an integrative literature review study, with a search carried out in the Virtual Health Library (VHL), including the Latin American and Caribbean Literature in Health Sciences (LILACS), Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO) and Google Scholar databases. Full articles were included, available in Portuguese, English or Spanish, which addressed the proposed theme. Exclusion criteria included letters to the editor, duplicate articles and those that did not deal directly with the topic. Results: The findings indicate that technologies such as low-temperature sterilizers, like hydrogen peroxide plasma and ozone, have high microbiological efficacy, lower energy consumption and reduced generation of toxic waste. Nursing plays a strategic role in the adoption of these technologies, but faces challenges such as the high initial cost, the need for continuous training and institutional barriers. Final considerations: The incorporation of sustainable technologies in the CME, together with the strengthening of permanent education and compliance with ANVISA and WHO regulations, is a viable and necessary strategy for promoting comprehensive health with environmental responsibility, highlighting the role of nursing in the management and implementation of ecologically responsible practices.