Administrative Procedure in Committees for Ethics in Animal Research in Poland

The paper presents the results of an analysis of theoretical aspects of errors in veterinary art and veterinary medical errors (malpractice). Definitions of fundamental phenomena, the authors’ typology of errors, and subtypes and examples are presented. The legal analysis made it possible to state that veterinary error is an act (action or omission) by a veterinarian that is inconsistent with the principles of performing this profession, defined by scientific veterinary medical knowledge, by the legal provisions, and by professional ethics. Veterinary error is a deviation from the accepted standards of veterinary practice which leads to negative consequences. A veterinary medical error, often called malpractice, is an act in the process of diagnosis and therapy inconsistent with veterinary science. The point of reference is current scientific medical knowledge. Atypology of the mentioned phenomena is presented. The proposed definitions and typology are intended to be universal, acceptable, and applicable in various legal systems. Errors are distinguished from similar phenomena and factual situations mistakenly considered errors by the general public and some scholars. Basic features and the epitome of veterinarians’ responsibility for errors made are demonstrated.