Technology, human error, and standards

Health care technology often is considered as an independent entity; however, it is used within a context, a system, by health care providers who are professionals with varying levels of training and lay care givers. Despite the centrality of users of health care technology, the rarely are actively involved in the development of the technology, instructions for its use and maintenance; or the testing and acquisition of the technology. This lack of involvement can result in health care technology that is difficult to use safely and effectively. Such difficulty can lead to human error, adverse events, and adverse outcomes in terms of patient health status. In addition to end-user involvement in all phases of development, testing, and acquisition, standards as well as criteria and guidance can increase the safety and effectiveness of health care technology by decreasing the likelihood of human error.