Medical devices have become prolific and continue to increase in complexity and diversity, which will inevitably affect risk. The aim of this UK study, conducted by Anthony Brown and with statistical support and guidance from Colin Pritchard, was to investigate the extent to which healthcare professionals’ attitudes and perceptions of risk influence the use of medical devices and the efficacy of error reporting

The UK’s National Health Service (NHS), now in its sixth decade, has seen rapid advances in medical devices used in the diagnosis, therapy and treatment of patients. Recent advances in medical technology have made it difficult for health professionals, including nursing staff and clinicians, to understand and properly operate medical equipment (Hooper et al 1993). The term medical device or equipment is generic, with examples including infusion devices, patient monitors, wheelchairs and surgical instruments. The quantity and complexity of devices continue to increase, which in turn leads to a rise in the potential risk.