It has been said that hundreds of thousands of people will suffer from medication errors annually. Though the actual number is in question as many errors may never be reported, the fact remains that as hospitals and staff are overworked and communication fails, errors will occur. The best we can do is become more informed and find out how we can help protect ourselves as well as understand what our rights if we are affected by medication errors in the future.
Ways You Can Help Prevent Medication Errors
At Home
- Keep a list of all prescription drugs, non prescription drugs as well as vitamins you are taking.
- Keep your list with you when you visit any doctor.
At the Pharmacy
- Check to be sure that the name of the drug given to you at the pharmacy is the same as the name written by your prescriber.
- Review your list of medications with the pharmacist.
- If you are concerned, talk to the pharmacist about your concerns, don’t be afraid to ask.
- Be sure you are given information about the medication and its side effects.
At The Doctor
- Show the doctor the prescription(s) that you are taking.
- When handed a prescription, discuss the reason for the prescription and be sure that it has no known interferences with the drugs you are already on.
- Have your doctor or their assistant explain to you how to take the drug properly, what dosage you should take and discuss any side effects and what to do in case you experience these side effects.
At the Hospital
- Talk to your doctor. Understand that they are busy but your well-being is important too. Take the time to discuss with your doctors and nurses about what drugs you are being given.
- Know why you are receiving the medications you are receiving. If you are unable to properly communicate, bring your spouse or someone who knows your allergies and medications with you and have them discuss it.
- Be sure you know what medications, if any, you will need to stop taking before any surgery to avoid complications.
- Get a complete list of the medications you need to take before you head home and go over how to take them properly.
*Know where to find information about drug interactions and your medications.
APKH&C Are Medication Error Attorneys In Gaylord MI
If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of a medication error, contact APKH&C for a free consultation. Skilled medication error attorneys in Gaylord MI, APKH&C can help you get what you deserve. From drug side effects to incorrect labeling, incorrect dosage, prescription errors and drug complications by the pharmacy, doctor alone or from poor communication between the two, medication errors are quite varied. Not limited simply to wrong medications, many different medication errors can occur in a number of levels of your care. If you have been impacted by a medication error in Gaylord MI, contact us right away online or by phone at 1.877.732.2491. If you have questions, feel free to contact us online as well.