Medication Errors That Cause Significant Injury: What You Need to Know

Medication errors are a major concern in the healthcare industry and can have serious consequences for patients. These errors can occur at any stage of the medication process, from prescription to administration, and can result in serious injury or even death. In this article, we will explore the 5 most common medication errors that cause significant injury and what you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Wrong medication

One of the most common medication errors is receiving the wrong medication. This can happen when a healthcare provider misreads a prescription or when a patient is given the wrong medication due to confusion with similar names or dosages. In some cases, the wrong medication can cause serious harm and even be life-threatening.

Incorrect dose

Another common medication error is receiving an incorrect dose of medication. This can occur when a healthcare provider makes a mistake when calculating the correct dosage, or when a patient misreads the instructions on the label. In either case, an incorrect dose can cause serious harm and even be life-threatening.

Interactions with other medications

Medication interactions are another common source of medication errors. When two or more medications are taken together, they can interact and cause serious side effects. This can occur when a healthcare provider prescribes a medication without knowing about other medications the patient is taking, or when a patient takes over-the-counter medications without consulting their healthcare provider.

Improper administration

Medication errors can also occur during the administration of medication. This can happen when a healthcare provider gives the medication at the wrong time, when a patient takes the medication without following the instructions, or when a patient is given the wrong route of administration (such as oral instead of intravenous).

Miscommunication between healthcare providers

Miscommunication between healthcare providers can also result in medication errors. This can happen when a healthcare provider fails to communicate important information about a patient's medication history or when a healthcare provider fails to update a patient's medication list. This can lead to medication errors and serious harm to the patient.

It is important to be proactive and take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones from medication errors. Here are some tips to help you avoid medication errors:

Make sure your healthcare provider has a complete and accurate list of all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter medications and supplements.

Read the label on your medication and make sure you understand the instructions for use.

Ask your healthcare provider about potential interactions between your medications.

Make sure your healthcare provider updates your medication list after every visit.

Report any medication errors to your healthcare provider immediately.

If you or a loved one has suffered significant injury as a result of a medication error, it is important to seek the help of an experienced attorney. The attorneys at Doucet Co., LPA are dedicated to helping victims of medication errors get the compensation they deserve. Call (888) 200-9824 to schedule a consultation today.