ADVERSE EVENTS

Common Terminology

Definition

Credit Source

Abrasion from instrument/object

A process that results in wear or removal of material from a component

MedWatch

Accessories, incompatible

Accessories are not matched to the correct instrument

MedWatch

Accidental Damage

The result of an unexpected and random event resulting in a device malfunction

common usage

Accuracy incorrect

The device produces results other than intended

common usage

Activation, difficult/delayed

Initiation of a function or display is delayed

MedWatch

Advance, failure to

A mechanical or display item does not increment as expected

MedWatch

Air leak(s)

A condition where a seal or connection is compromised and air is lost from the system

MedWatch

Alarm not visible

Inability to visualize the alarm signal due to environmental conditions or failure of the alarm system

MedWatch

Alarm, defective

Failure of an alarm to be activated when expected

MedWatch

Alarm, delayed

A normal variable time from when the triggering event occurs to when the alarm is actually displayed or sounded

MedWatch

Alarm, false

An alarm that occurs without a true out of range condition having occurred or when there is interference or corruption in the original signal such that the software logic or electronic circuitry is unable to accurately process the information

MedWatch

Alarm, low audible

A sound signal that may have below the threshold for users to detect

MedWatch

OTHER TERMS

Common Terminology

Definition

Credit Source

Alarm

An audible, visual, or tactile signal notifying users of an inappropriate situation or a change in a patient's condition

common usage

Annunciator

An audible or visual indicator triggered by an equipment condition or a threshold transition

common usage

Artifact

Anything in a graphic record or medical image that is caused by the technique used to produce the record and is not a natural occurrence but merely incidental

MedWatch