The spelling of the word "iatrogenic" might look intimidating, but it's actually quite easy to understand. The word comes from Greek, with "iatros" meaning "physician" and "genic" meaning "produced by." So "iatrogenic" refers to something that's caused by medical treatment or a medical professional. Phonetically, it's pronounced [aɪˌætroʊˈdʒɛnɪk]. The stress falls on the second syllable, and the ending "-genic" is pronounced with a hard "g" sound, like in the word "generous."
Iatrogenic is an adjective derived from the Greek words "iatros" meaning "physician" and "genos" meaning "origin" or "birth". It refers to any health condition or adverse effect that is caused by medical intervention or treatment, thus directly or indirectly resulting from the actions or decisions of healthcare professionals. The term can be used to describe a wide range of unintended consequences, ailments, or complications that arise during medical procedures, diagnostic tests, surgical interventions, or the administration of medications.
Iatrogenic conditions can be caused by various factors, such as medical errors, incorrect medication dosage, reactions to prescribed drugs, surgical complications, negligent treatment, or nosocomial infections acquired during a hospital stay. They may also be the result of a treatment's natural side effects. Examples of iatrogenic conditions include hospital-acquired infections, medication-induced allergies or adverse reactions, surgical complications like infections or injuries to adjacent organs, or even psychological distress caused by medical procedures.
Acknowledging and understanding iatrogenic effects is crucial for medical professionals in order to minimize risks and improve patient safety. Developing comprehensive protocols, guidelines, and safety measures can help prevent iatrogenic harms. The field of iatrogenesis also encompasses efforts to mitigate any negative outcomes and promote quality improvements in healthcare delivery systems. Overall, iatrogenic describes any condition or harm that has resulted from medical care, either directly or indirectly, warranting continued focus on patient-centered care and enhanced practices in the medical field.
The word "iatrogenic" is derived from Greek roots. It combines two Greek words: "iatros" meaning "physician" and "genos" meaning "origin" or "producing". Therefore, "iatrogenic" literally means "physician-produced" or "physician-caused". The term is used in medical contexts to describe any adverse effect or condition that is caused by a medical treatment or intervention.