What is indicated by the term "potential" in a medical context?

In a medical context, the term "potential" refers to something that is likely to occur or is capable of occurring in the future. This indicates a possibility rather than certainty. For example, when discussing a patient's potential reaction to a medication, it refers to the likelihood of that reaction based on their medical history and other factors. Understanding "potential" helps healthcare professionals assess risks, plan interventions, and guide patient care by identifying scenarios that may develop based on current conditions or behaviors. This nuanced understanding is essential for anticipating future health outcomes and enabling proactive measures to prevent negative health events.