What does the term "adverse effects" refer to in healthcare safety?

The term "adverse effects" in healthcare safety specifically refers to negative or harmful effects that result from healthcare delivery, which can include a range of unintended consequences from medical treatments, procedures, or medications. These effects can vary in severity and can lead to complications that impact patient safety and outcomes. Understanding adverse effects is crucial for healthcare professionals, as it enables them to recognize potential risks associated with treatments and take appropriate preventive measures.

In contrast, positive outcomes from treatments represent beneficial effects, while effects requiring immediate patient feedback focus on the need for quick responses rather than on harmful outcomes. Standard side effects of medications, while related, typically refer to known reactions that may be anticipated and, in many cases, are less severe than acute adverse effects.