What term describes an incident that almost resulted in an accident but did not?

The term "near miss event" is used to describe an incident that almost led to an accident but ultimately did not result in harm. This concept is important in safety and risk management, particularly in healthcare settings, as it highlights potential hazards that could cause accidents if not addressed. By analyzing near miss events, organizations can identify weaknesses in their processes and systems, thereby preventing future incidents that could result in actual harm to patients or staff.

Near miss events serve as valuable learning opportunities, allowing health professionals to refine practices, improve communication, and implement better safety measures. By recognizing these events and investigating their causes, organizations can foster a culture of safety and continuous improvement.

In contrast, terms like adverse event typically refer to incidents that have already resulted in injury or harm, while sentinel event denotes serious, unexpected occurrences that lead to death or significant harm, often prompting an immediate investigation. Complications refer to secondary effects that arise during the course of treatment, rather than near misses. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for effective risk management and patient safety initiatives.