Term: Prophylactic Measures

Glossary Definition

Last Updated: 2007-09-26

Definition:

Prophylactic measures are measures designed to prevent the occurrence of an adverse event, a disease or its dissemination. Examples of prophylactic measures for patient safety include: standard protocols, procedures or actions such as compression stockings during surgery to prevent post-operative blood clots.

References 

• Bruce S, Prior H, Katz A, Taylor M, Latosinsky S, Martens P, De Coster C, Brownell M, Soodeen R, Steinbach C. Application of Patient Safety Indicators in Manitoba: A First Look. Winnipeg, MB: Manitoba Centre for Health Policy, 2006. [Report] [Summary] (View)