What term is used to describe significant conditions that may need investigation for quality improvement?

The term "Sentinel Health Events" refers specifically to significant occurrences that signal the need for immediate investigation and action to improve quality and safety in healthcare settings. These events are typically unexpected and indicate potential flaws in the system that could lead to serious harm or adverse outcomes for patients.

Sentinel events serve as critical reminders for healthcare facilities to closely examine their processes, policies, and practices. They are essential for identifying areas that require improvement to prevent recurrence. The investigation of these events often leads to meaningful changes in clinical practice, ultimately enhancing patient safety and care quality.

In contrast, while adverse health events and critical incidents also imply negative outcomes, they do not always require investigation or imply a systemic issue that could enhance learning and improvement as sentinel events do. Emergency conditions typically refer to life-threatening situations requiring immediate attention, but they are not specific to quality improvement investigations. Thus, "Sentinel Health Events" is the term that encapsulates the significance of these occurrences in the context of quality improvement.