Question

"Latent errors" are best defined as:

(A) Defects in the design and organization of processes and systems.
(B) Errors in patient care that don't ever result in harm and thus go undetected.
(C) Mistakes in patient care that providers fail to report due to fear of punishment.
(D) Errors in patient care that cause immediate adverse effects.

Answer 1

Latent errors are hidden issues within healthcare systems that can lead to errors when combined with specific triggers, differing from immediate active errors or unreported errors.

Step-by-step explanation:

“Latent errors” are best defined as defects in the design and organization of processes and systems. They typically lie dormant within the system and can lead to errors when combined with local triggers or active failures. This contrasts with active errors, which are direct and often immediately noticeable mistakes that cause harm, and with errors that go undetected or unreported due to various reasons. Understanding and identifying latent errors is crucial for creating safer systems in healthcare and preventing potential adverse events.