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    Use Error

    User action or lack thereof that leads to a different result than intended by the manufacturer or expected by the user.

    Reviewed by Christian Espinosa, Founder, Blue Goat CyberLast reviewed May 5, 2026

    Definition

    Per IEC 62366-1, a use error is a user action or lack thereof while using a medical device that leads to a different result than that intended. It is not necessarily user 'error' - it often reflects design issues.

    What this means in practice

    Use errors are addressed via design changes, mitigations, training, or labeling, evaluated through formative and summative usability studies.

    Cross-references

    See also

    Closely related context worth reading.

    Primary references

    3 sources
    Link health: 3 verified· last checked 2026-05-09
    ISO·2FDA·1
    1. 1
      IEC 62366-1
      Verified
      ISOiso.org
    2. 2
      ISO 14155 Standard Page
      Verified
      ISOiso.org
    3. 3
      FDA - Clinical Trials and Human Subject Protection
      Verified
      FDAfda.gov

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