Adverse Events, Patient Harm Rose Last Year

A new report from the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) shows reportable adverse events and instances of patient harm rose last year.

In 2021, the total number of reported events increased to 508–up from 382 in 2020. Pressure ulcers and falls were the most reported events. Prior to last year, the overall number of adverse events in Minnesota hospitals, ambulatory surgical centers and community behavioral health hospitals had been stable, but last year saw an increase in events–mainly due to new challenges and increased care associated with COVID-19. SOC

The MDH report points to staff shortages as another key factor in the increase in adverse patient events.