What term describes a condition that may be preventable and results from inadequate attention to impairment?

The term that describes a condition resulting from inadequate attention to impairment and that may be preventable is a secondary condition. Secondary conditions typically arise as a consequence of a primary impairment or injury and can often be avoided or minimized through proactive management and rehabilitation. For instance, a patient with a primary mobility impairment, such as a stroke, may develop secondary conditions like pressure ulcers or contractures due to lack of movement and care.

Understanding this concept is particularly important in physical therapy, where the goal is to not only address the primary injury but also to prevent the emergence of these subsequent complications. Proactive measures such as regular monitoring, therapeutic interventions, and patient education are crucial in reducing the risk of secondary conditions.

The other terms serve distinct purposes:

• A primary condition refers to the initial diagnosis or main health issue that is being treated, while
• A comorbid condition refers to additional health problems that co-exist with the primary condition, which can complicate treatment but are not necessarily directly caused by it.
• A chronic condition describes a long-term health issue that persists over time, regardless of it being a direct result of a primary impairment.

Recognizing the distinction between these terms helps healthcare professionals effectively manage patient care and improve outcomes.