According to "To Err is Human," what proportion of adverse events due to medical errors could potentially be prevented?

The correct answer is that more than half of adverse events due to medical errors could potentially be prevented, as stated in "To Err is Human," a pivotal report by the Institute of Medicine. This report highlights the significant number of medical errors occurring in healthcare systems and emphasizes that a substantial portion of these errors are preventable through safe practices, improved protocols, and enhanced communication among healthcare providers.

The assertion that more than half of adverse events are preventable underscores the importance of implementing robust patient safety initiatives and safety culture in healthcare settings. By focusing on prevention strategies, healthcare organizations can reduce the incidence of errors and improve patient outcomes.

In the context of this question, other proportions suggested—such as less than 10%, about 25%, or nearly all—do not accurately reflect the findings of the report. They underestimate the potential for prevention in the realm of medical errors. The conclusion that a significant majority can be avoided underscores the critical need for ongoing efforts to enhance safety standards and practices in healthcare.