A medication error is a preventable error that may cause inappropriate medication use or patient harm while the medication is in control of the health care professional
When you go to the hospital or doctor’s office to be treated, you expect to be given the utmost standard of care and that all the medical professionals will provide the treatment you need. Unfortunately, it happens far too often that patients are given improper treatment and medications that can often lead to more serious conditions. Studies have shown that over one million people are injured each year in our country due to medication errors. A medication error is a preventable error that may cause inappropriate medication use or patient harm while the medication is in control of the health care professional, patient, or consumer. Here are some of the common types of medication errors.
Incorrect Prescription Administration
When you are given a prescription at a hospital, it is expected that the healthcare providers assign you the proper medication and dosage. The wrong dose can either be too much or too little of a drug, but it is typically considered more serious when a patient is given too much of a drug. The staff member may be unaware of a patient’s medical history, allergies, diet, or other prescriptions. Not knowing this information could lead to a preventable reaction.
Prescribing the Wrong Medication
This type of error may occur for numerous reasons. For example, confusing two drugs because they have similar names. Doctors and medical staff need to communicate with one another to keep patients safe. This means writing prescriptions legibly and sharing any changes in patient medications. This simple mix-up can have dangerous consequences for the patient
Failure to Provide Medication
Medication may be intentionally or accidentally withheld from patients. This can also occur when the staff gives expired medication, resulting in the patient not getting the full benefit of the drug, complications, or even death because the medication is no longer safe to use.
Medication errors begin as small mistakes but can quickly escalate into serious health issues for the patient. If you are given medications while in the hospital, it is your right to ask questions. Ensure that the medication is the correct one for you, receive the proper dose, and be given the drug in the correct form. If you believe that you or a loved one has been the victim of a medication error, contact us today.
Contact The Snyder Law Group Today
The Snyder Law Group, LLC, proudly represents clients throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C. Our experienced Baltimore attorneys understand the frustration that comes with an insurance company, medical professional, or other party that refuses to accept liability for negligent or reckless behavior. You can take heart in knowing there are talented and experienced lawyers ready to work for you. We are experienced in handling personal injury claims of medical malpractice or injury resulting from serious car and truck accidents, and have secured hundreds of millions in verdicts and settlements. Please visit our website, www.410thefirm.com, or call us at 410-843-3476, for more information. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.