A predictive technique for identifying potential untoward occurrences. It starts with three simple questions:
what can go wrong?
how likely is it to happen?
how bad would it be if it happened?
The combined answers allow an estimate to be made of the risk. Given the scope for clinical mishaps in medicine – let alone staff and corporate risks in hospitals and clinics– the need for a credible, operational risk strategy is substantial. (see also NEVER EVENT; RED FLAG).