The consequences of patient harm are multi-faceted and can include:
1. Physical and Emotional Suffering: Patients may experience prolonged hospital stays, additional surgeries, or long-term disabilities. Emotional distress can also follow traumatic healthcare experiences.
2. Financial Burden: Increased healthcare costs due to additional treatments, legal fees, and potential loss of income for patients and their families.
3. Loss of Trust: Patients may lose trust in the healthcare system, leading to reluctance in seeking medical help when needed.
4. Professional Repercussions: Healthcare providers may face legal actions, loss of license, and damage to their professional reputation.
