patient harm

Patient harm refers to injuries or adverse effects that occur to a patient as a result of healthcare, treatment, or medical procedures. This can include medication errors, infections acquired in a healthcare setting, wrong diagnoses, or complications from treatments that negatively affect a patient’s health. The goal of healthcare providers is to prevent harm by ensuring safe practices. When harm does occur, it can lead to additional treatment, longer hospital stays, or worse health outcomes. Addressing and reducing patient harm is essential for improving the quality and safety of healthcare.