Define "adverse drug event."

An adverse drug event refers specifically to any injury that results from a medical intervention related to a drug. This includes a wide range of occurrences, from harmful side effects experienced by a patient after taking medication to more severe incidents that may require medical attention, such as allergic reactions or overdoses. The key aspect of an adverse drug event is that it is unintended and harmful, stemming directly from the pharmacological action of the drug or its interactions with other treatments.

This concept is crucial for healthcare providers as it emphasizes the importance of monitoring and managing patients' responses to medications to minimize risks. Understanding that adverse drug events can arise from proper medical interventions helps in addressing these risks proactively and improving patient safety.