HOSPITAL INVENTORY MANAGEMENT, A STUDY ON THE BENEFITS OF STRUCTURED PROCESSES AND THE USE OF CONTROL TOOLS IN THE PURCHASING SECTOR

This technical-scientific essay critically analyzes hospital inventory management practices, with emphasis on the adoption of structured processes and control tools applied to the purchasing sector. The inadequate administration of inputs and medicines — whether due to the absence of protocols or failures in monitoring — compromises not only operational efficiency, but also the safety of care and the financial sustainability of institutions. The research proposes to discuss mechanisms that enable greater logistical predictability, minimize losses and ensure the continuous availability of critical items, especially in contexts of high demand and systemic vulnerability. To this end, a qualitative, applied and descriptive approach is adopted, through a case study conducted in a real hospital environment. Data collection involved document analysis and direct observation of acquisition, storage and distribution routines. The findings demonstrate that metrics such as average monthly consumption, coverage in days of inventory and suppliers' lead time are fundamental parameters for assertive management decisions. It is also evident that the standardization of processes, when combined with the implementation of robust internal controls, strengthens traceability, reduces operational variability and contributes to a more strategic governance of the hospital supply chain. It is concluded that inventory management should be understood as a structuring axis of care practices, with a direct impact on the continuity and quality of care provided.