If something goes wrong when an individuals is undergoing medical treatment, it is referred to a ‘medical accident’ or ‘adverse event’. If the treatment does not work or there are complications, this does not always mean that there has been a mistake, or that someone is to be blamed. 

In certain cases, errors or complications have to be accepted as unavoidable risks of the treatment and, the doctor or other healthcare professional should not be blamed. For instance, when one has undergone a major surgery, some risks because of the surgery are expected. Complications can occur with minor procedures as well.