An incident can be defined as what?

An incident is typically defined as an accident or unexpected event that occurs during a visit, which can disrupt standard procedures or lead to unforeseen consequences for the individual receiving care. This definition encompasses a wide range of events, from medical emergencies to behavioral incidents that may not have been anticipated. Understanding this definition is crucial for Direct Care Workers, as it emphasizes the importance of being prepared to respond to unexpected situations that can arise in the course of providing care.

In contrast, a scheduled visit without issues, planned procedures, or minor errors that do not affect care do not fit the definition of an incident, as they either imply that everything is proceeding as planned or that only trivial mistakes have occurred, which would not typically necessitate the same level of attention or response as a true incident.