Danger
Danger refers to the possibility of harm, injury, or adverse outcome. It denotes a condition or situation in which there is a credible threat to physical, psychological, or systemic integrity.
In scientific, clinical, and risk analysis contexts, “danger” is distinguished from “risk” and “hazard”:
Key Concepts
- Hazard: a potential source of harm (e.g. radiation, pathogen).
- Danger: the immediate potential for harm due to the presence or proximity of a hazard.
- Risk: the probability and severity of harm occurring from that danger.
Examples in Clinical Context
- “The patient is in danger of respiratory failure.”
- “Delayed evacuation of an epidural hematoma poses immediate danger to life.”
- “The drug was withdrawn due to the danger of fatal arrhythmias.”
Characteristics of Danger
- Often time-sensitive: danger implies imminent or escalating threat.
- Can be context-dependent: what is dangerous in one situation may be tolerated in another.
- Requires judgment and action: identification of danger often prompts urgent intervention.
Distinction from Related Terms
Term | Definition |
---|---|
Hazard | A potential source of harm, but not necessarily active. |
Danger | An active or imminent threat that may cause immediate harm. |
Risk | A measure that combines likelihood and impact of an adverse event. |
Summary
Danger is not merely theoretical—it implies a real and pressing threat requiring awareness and potentially immediate response. In clinical settings, recognizing danger can mean the difference between proactive care and avoidable harm.