Risk assessment

In the broadest sense, a risk assessment is the combined effort of identifying and analysing potential (future) events that may negatively impact individuals, assets, and/or the environment (also known as hazard analysis); and making judgments "on the tolerability of the risk on the basis of a risk analysis" while taking into consideration influencing factors. In other words, identifying and analysing potential (future) events that may negatively impact individuals, assets, and/or the environment can be thought of as (i.e. risk evaluation).

In layman's words, a risk assessment is the process of determining the potential for accidents, the chance of those accidents occurring, the repercussions of those accidents, and the tolerances for those kinds of occurrences. The outcomes of this procedure may be analysed and discussed using either a quantitative or qualitative approach. Assessment of risk is an integral component of a more comprehensive risk management approach, which aims to mitigate the impact of any possible risks and their associated repercussions.

An evaluation of risk is required in each particular circumstance, including interactions between patients and physicians. It is possible for an individual's perceptions or evaluations of risk to be coloured by psychological, ideological, religious, or other subjective considerations, which may have an effect on the rationality of the process.