Error, error potential, and risk mitigation in medicine from the perspective of a diagnostician.

Abstract

The nature of error is discussed by referring to its sources. The notion of the error potential is presented for assessment of uncertainty due to error. As an a priori measure, the error potential can guide efforts to reduce risk in medicine. Risk mitigation may essentially be achieved with quality assurance, knowledge sourcing, and diagnostic trialing. The purpose of this manuscript is to contribute to the efficacy and safety of medical interventions. It can also serve as an introduction to error and risk within the study curricula of the medical professions.