Error and safety in primary care: no clear boundaries

Abstract

This paper examines the notions of adverse events, error, critical incidents and safety from the specific viewpoint of primary care. We conclude that each term can be defined, but existing work which we reviewed uses many of the terms interchangeably. We recognise that trying to access medical error objectively within primary care can be problematic. Regardless of definitions, reflection on critical incidents, adverse events or other notable events is important, but requires time and resources to be conducted effectively.