What are near misses in a healthcare context?

In the healthcare context, near misses refer to incidents that do not result in harm to the patient but highlight areas of potential risk. These occurrences provide valuable insights for healthcare organizations, revealing situations that could lead to adverse events if they are not addressed. By identifying and analyzing near misses, healthcare professionals can implement preventive measures to enhance patient safety and quality of care.

Addressing near misses is crucial because they serve as indicators of systemic vulnerabilities that need to be corrected. This proactive approach allows healthcare providers to improve processes and prevent future incidents that could harm patients. Near misses promote a culture of safety where learning from such events is prioritized, ultimately fostering an environment focused on continuous improvement and enhanced patient outcomes.