The 2000 IOM report states, "It may be part of human nature to err, but it is also part of human nature to create solutions, find better alternatives, and meet the challenges ahead."

Everyone should use these positive aspects of human nature to prevent medical errors.

Laboratory professionals can do their part by understanding the nature and causes of medical errors and ways to prevent them. They can also benefit by guidance from many clinical, regulatory, and Internet resources that aim to prevent medical errors.