Definitions Flashcards
Safety
The degree to which risk is reduced for a patient and others, including healthcare practitioners. The freedom from accidental injury.
Risk
The likelihood of harm multiplied by the severity of potential harm. The probability that an incident will occur.
Benchmark
The performance of an organization or individual considered as a standard for others
Root Cause
The most fundamental reason an event has occurred.
System
A set of interrelated parts working together towards a common goal.
Hazard
A situation or event that increases the likelihood of an adverse event. The potential source of harm.
Incident
An event that significantly deviates from the standard of care in a healthcare setting.
Liability (Professional)
A legal obligation resulting from performing (or failing to perform) something as a professional.
Quality
The degree to which health services increase the likelihood of desired health outcomes and are consistent with professional knowledge.
Near Miss
An event that could have resulted in harm but did not, either by chance or timely intervention.
Error of Execution
A correct action that does not proceed as planned.
Error of Violation
A deliberate deviation from established standards, rules, or procedures.
Error of Proficiency
Error due to lack of knowledge or skill.
Error
A general term for any failure in a planned sequence of actions or activities to achieve the intended outcome.
Error of Omission
An error that occurs because an action was not taken (e.g., failing to provide a necessary treatment).
Error of Commission
An error that occurs as a result of an action taken (e.g., using the wrong plan to achieve an aim).
Sharp End of the System
The part where practitioners directly interact with the hazardous process (e.g., doctor-patient interface).
Blunt End of the System
The part of the system not directly involved with patients but still influencing care (e.g., policies, procedures, resources).
Close Call
A situation that could have resulted in harm but didn’t, either by chance or through timely intervention.
Contributing Factor
A circumstance, action, or influence that played a role in the occurrence or development of an incident.
Harm
Any physical or psychological injury or damage to a person’s health, including both temporary and permanent injury.
Sentinel Event
An unexpected event resulting in death or major loss of function, not related to the natural course of the patient’s illness or condition.
Accident
An unplanned, unexpected, and undesired event, usually with an adverse consequence
Adverse Event
An injury caused by medical management or a complication, not by the underlying disease. May or may not have been preventable
