title: [Lights and shadows in patient safety: study and development of strategies. 2008 SESPAS Report].
abstract: Study of the frequency of healthcare-related adverse events (AE) and of their effect on patients and impact on healthcare systems has markedly increased in recent years. Indepth individual analysis of the factors contributing to these events has allowed strategies to prevent or minimize the impact of AE to be developed. However, an epidemiologic perspective is needed to explore possible associations and generalize the recommendations that can be drawn from this type of analysis. Some aspects that should been considered while developing future strategies are discussed. These aspects include the importance of patient age and comorbidities on producing AE and the use of highly technological medicine, which is sometimes unnecessary. A culture of trust and confidentiality and a spirit of collaboration among organizations are indispensable to share and learn about the initiatives prompted by the study of AE and thereby improve patient safety in the national health service.
authors.affiliation: Departamento de Salud Pública, Historia de la Ciencia y Ginecología, Universidad Miguel Hernández, Elche, Alicante, España. aranaz_jes@gva.es
authors.forename: Jesús M
authors.initials: JM
authors.lastname: Aranaz-Andrés
authors.forename: Ramón
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Limón-Ramírez
authors.forename: Carlos
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Aibar-Remón
authors.forename: Juan José
authors.initials: JJ
authors.lastname: Miralles-Bueno
authors.forename: Julián
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Vitaller-Burillo
authors.forename: Enrique
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Terol-García
authors.forename: M Teresa
authors.initials: MT
authors.lastname: Gea-Velázquez de Castro
authors.forename: Juana
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Requena-Puche
authors.forename: Milagros
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Rey-Talens
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D010361:Patients; D012308:Risk Management; D012449:Safety; D013030:Spain