Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE) Practice Exam

What is an iatrogenic medical or surgical problem?

1. A disease secondary to inbreeding

2. A genetic predisposition

3. A disease that gets better without treatment

4. A bad outcome, inflicted by the therapy itself

The correct answer is: A bad outcome, inflicted by the therapy itself

An iatrogenic medical or surgical problem specifically refers to adverse effects or complications that arise as a result of medical intervention or treatment, rather than as a result of the underlying disease itself. This means that while the intent of the treatment may have been to improve the patient's condition, the treatment inadvertently causes harm or produces negative outcomes. In many clinical situations, treatments such as medications, surgical procedures, or diagnostic tests can lead to unintended consequences, illustrating the concept of iatrogenesis. For instance, the use of a certain drug may lead to side effects, or a surgical procedure might result in complications that the patient did not experience before the treatment began. Recognizing iatrogenic effects is crucial for improving patient safety and outcomes. The other options provided do not align with the definition of iatrogenic problems. For example, a disease secondary to inbreeding pertains to genetic issues rather than those arising from medical intervention. Similarly, genetic predisposition is about inherited traits and potential risks rather than treatment outcomes. A disease that resolves without treatment refers to self-limiting conditions, which is unrelated to the nuances of iatrogenic effects.