What is an essential trait of a near-miss event?

A near-miss event is defined as a situation where an error or potential hazard occurs, but does not result in patient harm. The essential trait of a near-miss event is that it provides an opportunity for learning and improvement within healthcare systems. When these events are recorded and analyzed, they allow healthcare organizations to identify weaknesses in processes, improve safety protocols, and ultimately prevent actual harm from occurring in the future.

The recording and analysis of near-miss events are critical in establishing a culture of safety. By investigating these incidents, healthcare professionals can recognize trends or common factors that contribute to risks, leading to the development of strategies to mitigate such risks in patient care going forward. This proactive approach is a fundamental aspect of quality improvement in healthcare settings.

In contrast, other answer choices do not align with the definition of a near-miss. While near misses may involve errors or situations that could lead to serious incidents, they, by definition, do not lead to immediate harm or require intervention. They are not classified as serious incidents because they did not result in adverse outcomes. This distinction helps organizations target their safety resources effectively and focus on both prevention and education.