Iatrogenesis refers to the undesirable effects or complications that occur as a result of a medical intervention or treatment. This phenomenon raises major issues in the health field, as it impacts both patient safety and the quality of care. Understanding the mechanisms of iatrogenesis allows for better anticipation of risks and improvement of medical practices, thus promoting a safer and more effective care pathway for all. Analyzing this topic involves considering various factors ranging from the training of health professionals to patient engagement in their medical follow-up.
Iatrogenesis designates the entirety of adverse effects caused by a medical act, treatment, or intervention. These effects can result from prescription errors, negligence, but also from an unexpected reaction to medications or procedures. Thus, the term iatrogenic encompasses a variety of situations ranging from mild complications to severe consequences for patients’ health.
The issues of iatrogenesis are multiple and concerning. First of all, patient safety is at stake. Medical errors occur more frequently than one might think, often due to poor communication between health professionals or between the doctor and the patient. A rigorous assessment of risks and increased vigilance are essential to minimize this issue.
Moreover, iatrogenesis has a significant impact on the healthcare system. It generates additional costs due to the care needed to treat complications arising from an error. These costs may include prolonged hospitalizations, additional treatments, or corrective procedures. Therefore, managing iatrogenesis is essential to ensure the proper functioning of healthcare facilities.
The areas most affected by iatrogenesis include pharmacology, where drug interactions can lead to serious adverse effects. Inappropriate prescribing, the accumulation of medications, or the lack of information on the patient’s medical history can lead to errors. Consequently, the training of health professionals on treatment management must be strengthened to limit the risks of inappropriate medication.
Another major issue is surgical iatrogenesis, which occurs during surgical interventions. The risks can arise from complications during anesthesia, post-operative infections, or inadvertent damage to adjacent organs. Rigorous preparation of interventions, as well as clear communication with the patient about inherent risks, are essential to reduce surgical iatrogenesis.
To better understand iatrogenesis, it is crucial to examine the various causes that underlie it. These can be classified in relation to medical practices, healthcare systems, and human factors. In terms of medical practices, a lack of clear protocols, incomplete documentation, and a lack of continuity in care can contribute to iatrogenesis. Likewise, dysfunctional healthcare systems, with a lack of resources or personnel, can increase the risk of medical errors.
Human factors such as stress, occupational burnout, or the workload of caregivers can also increase the likelihood of iatrogenic errors. Therefore, it is imperative to adopt a systemic approach, involving continuous training, effective communication tools, and feedback systems to identify and correct errors.
Finally, it is essential to involve patients in the fight against iatrogenesis. Participatory medicine allows patients to better understand their treatment, express their concerns, and report any adverse effects. By fostering a collaborative relationship between the patient and the health professional, we can improve the quality of care and reduce the rate of iatrogenesis.
