What is an incident report?

An incident report is a written account created after an unexpected event or occurrence in the workplace, which details the specifics of the incident, including what happened, when it happened, and who was involved. This report serves multiple purposes; it helps in documenting the event for accountability, provides a basis for investigation, and can lead to improved safety measures and policies in the organization.

An incident report is vital in the healthcare setting, as it can identify patterns or areas requiring attention to prevent future occurrences, ensuring the safety and well-being of both staff and patients. It is not simply a summary of daily activities, a planning document for future care, or a performance tracking tool, as these functions have entirely different objectives and content.