Based on data compiled by Maryland's Office of Health Care Quality, preventable errors increased dramatically, from 190 errors in 2009 to 265 errors in 2010, though health officials said the increase could be attributed to improved reporting by hospitals, according to a Baltimore Sun news report.
In 2010, 265 deaths and serious injuries were reported by hospitals: 88 resulted from patient falls; 59 from hospital-acquired pressure ulcers; 20 from delays in treatment; and 15 from retained foreign bodies after a surgical procedure, according to a department news release. Under the Maryland Patient Safety Program, hospitals are required to report adverse events. The most serious events resulting in death or disability must be reported to the OHCQ for investigation.
Read the news report about Maryland hospital quality.
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In 2010, 265 deaths and serious injuries were reported by hospitals: 88 resulted from patient falls; 59 from hospital-acquired pressure ulcers; 20 from delays in treatment; and 15 from retained foreign bodies after a surgical procedure, according to a department news release. Under the Maryland Patient Safety Program, hospitals are required to report adverse events. The most serious events resulting in death or disability must be reported to the OHCQ for investigation.
Read the news report about Maryland hospital quality.
Related Articles on Quality:
Ambulatory Surgical Center Quality and Access Act of 2011 Introduced in House
California Department of Health Fines 12 Hospitals for Patient Safety Violations
Patient Safety Tool: AHRQ Pamphlet for Reducing Medication Errors